I did some research and learned that New Year's Day was originally celebrated back in ancient Babylonian times - but back then it was celebrated in March. It wasn't until 46 BC that the Romans set the new year as starting on January 1. Thanks, Caesar.

When we began setting new year's resolutions is not clear. Some say it began with the Babylonians who made promises to their gods saying that they would settle their debts. Years later and an ocean apart, history says that the Puritans encouraged their children to stop and reflect on the previous year and contemplate the year to come.

Do Resolutions Work?

We all want to improve ourselves and using the new year as a starting point makes sense. Research shows that 50% of all Americans set new year's resolutions, but according to Psychologist Richard Wiseman, nearly 90% of those resolutions fail.

We also know that the older we get, the harder it is to change.

Time Magazine compiled a list of top resolutions made, and the ones that fail the most. The top five on both lists are:

1)          Losing weight and get fit

2)          Quitting smoking

3)          Learning something new

4)          Eating healthier

5)          Getting out of debt

So it seems like we are all focusing on the same things. But if millions of people are failing at these, what does this mean?

Read more: Wall Street Journal article on the science behind "failed resolutions": 

Creating Resolutions to Keep

If you know me, you know that I'm all about positive thinking. I don't think we should give up on resolutions. Instead, let's learn from our mistakes and help our patients and clients make resolutions that they can keep.

Mama mia! Where to begin...

Here's a good starting point that you can try for yourself or facilitate with a patient, resident, or client, or in a group setting:

- Find a quiet place where you can sit. Have a paper/pen ready.

- Think about a few changes you want to make. Write them down. What can I do to improve my health? How can I eliminate/minimize stress in my life?

- Pick one goal. Too many will lead to information overload. One is manageable.

- Make your goal concrete. Tie it to a specific behavior or habit that can be changed. Don't try to fix it all at once. Just focus on one small thing and build from there.

For example, if you want to lose weight, start with a 3 minute walk at a set time every day. If you want to quit smoking, start by not smoking the cigarette you have every morning with your coffee. Or, if you want to eat healthier, stop eating the bad food at the office. Bring healthy snacks like a fruit every day.

After a week, read through your goals with somebody and talk about them. Don't forget to reevaluate, and reward yourself if you are doing well!

Click here for more tips!

Start Today!