New year’s resolutions date back to the Babylonians over four-thousand years ago. The Babylonians would make promises to the gods and if their promises were kept, the gods would bring them great fortune in the coming year.

The clock strikes twelve, a new year, a time to leave your problems in the past and begin a new chapter of your life.

The New Year resolution idea in present time has only had a slight change since the Babylonians. Resolutions are now promises made to yourself and not to the gods. Both the past and present ideas of  resolutions are beneficial when completing them. The goals differ depending on the person and what they hope to accomplish.

“I want to go to the gym more as well as work on my self-confidence,” senior Aidan Pendergraft said.

People all over the world have different resolutions. Studies by The Times News shows, “The top resolutions in the United states are improving diets, picking up a new hobby, and spending time with family.”

Resolutions are hard to maintain as there are so many distractions and obstacles that can get in the way. According to the Journal of Clinical Psychology, “Only around 46% of people successfully follow through with their new year’s resolutions.” Resolution success rate is very low so most do not follow through with them. Studies show that not completing them can lead to more sadness than you would think.

Resolutions could have so many positive outcomes and are a great goal setting experience too. Benefits of making them can be significant. According to Forbes, “Making New Year’s resolutions is inherently hopeful and optimistic. You expect things can get better for you, for your work experience or for your community. This positive view of the future, in turn, tends to motivate action.”

Knocking a resolution off the list can be accomplished, and a confidence booster too. In order to maintain them though you must hold yourself accountable and really commit to the goals you set.