It’s 2026, and New Year’s resolutions are being written on crisp notepads around the world. But how close will most of them actually get to the finish line?

Why do we humans have a tendency to self-sabotage? Why does “Day 1” feel so much better to say than “Day 100”?

At what point in the year do these bursts of inspiration quietly fade away?

Is the real secret to New Year’s resolutions found in small, consistent habits, or in bold, ambitious goals?

Many of you reading this probably received James Clear’s Atomic Habits and felt inspired to take a leap by setting a huge goal to achieve this year.

This very podcast is in fact a New Years Resolution. Will I get to 100 episodes? Or will life get in the way?

Here are three reasons humans fail at New Year’s resolutions.

*1. We’re high on motivation*

Most resolutions are born from a motivation spike. After weeks of indulgence, we crave routine, fitness, clean living, and more money. Motivation feels powerful, but it fades fast. While motivation starts goals, structure sustains them. Most people don’t fail from lack of desire. They fail because they lack systems that hold them steady once emotion disappears.

*2. Vague plus extreme equals failure*

“Get fit” or “make more money” sound good but lack clarity. More specific goals like “run three times a week” or “increase income by 10 percent” are better, but often demand drastic lifestyle changes. These ideas feel exciting at Christmas, but as time passes and discomfort appears, commitment slips.

*3. All or nothing thinking*

When progress is viewed as success or failure, one missed action feels like total defeat. “I missed a run, so I’ve failed.” That mindset kills goals faster than poor discipline ever could.

*One change that changes everything*

Think big, but act small. Keep ambitious goals, but attach simple, repeatable actions that compound over time.

If your goal is to double your income, focus on becoming more valuable. Ask how you can contribute directly to growth. Compensation follows value.

If your goal is running, start once a week. Build consistency first, then increase gradually.

The key is this: don’t quit when you slip. Everyone slips. Pick it up immediately and move on.

Progress isn’t built on perfection.

It’s built on persistence.

*My goals for 2026:*

Wake at 4am

Enter one Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournament

Read books instead of scrolling

Record 100 solo podcast episodes

*My plan:*

Sleep at 9pm, phone outside the bedroom

Actually sign up

Keep books nearby

Release this episode... 'Day 1'