New Year’s Resolutions: Origins and Why We Make Them

Let our experts help if you need a story as one year closes and another one kicks off

Dec 26, 2024

2 min



As the calendar turns, millions around the world embrace the tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions, a practice rooted in self-reflection and renewal. While often seen as a personal commitment to change, this custom also reflects cultural, historical, and psychological aspects of human behavior.


Exploring the origins and modern significance of New Year’s resolutions offers a rich opportunity to examine why this tradition endures and what it says about our shared aspirations for the future. Key story angles include:


  • Historical Roots of New Year’s Resolutions: Tracing the tradition back to ancient Babylonian and Roman practices and their influence on today’s customs.
  • Psychology Behind Resolutions: Exploring why people set goals at the start of the year and the factors that influence success or failure in achieving them.
  • Most Popular Resolutions and Their Societal Impact: Analyzing trends in health, finances, and personal growth goals and what they reveal about changing priorities.
  • Global Variations in New Year’s Traditions: Highlighting how different cultures mark the New Year and set intentions for the months ahead.
  • The Science of Habit Formation: Investigating how neuroscience and behavioral science can help people turn resolutions into lasting habits.
  • Skepticism and Alternatives: Examining criticisms of resolutions, including their commercialized aspects, and exploring alternative approaches to self-improvement.


The enduring tradition of New Year’s resolutions provides a window into humanity’s shared desire for growth and renewal, offering journalists a timely and engaging topic to explore from multiple perspectives.


Connect with an expert about New Year’s Resolutions:











To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com


You might also like...

Check out some other posts from ExpertFile

1 min

The History and Strategic Significance of Greenland

Greenland, the world's largest island, holds a fascinating history and a crucial role in global geopolitics. With its deep connections to Inuit heritage and colonial ties to Denmark, Greenland's past reflects a narrative of resilience, adaptation, and evolving autonomy. Today, it is not just a cultural and historical landmark but also a strategic asset in military and security considerations. Its location between North America and Europe, coupled with its rich natural resources, makes Greenland a focal point for Arctic sovereignty, climate research, and geopolitical maneuvering. Key story angles of interest include: Greenland's colonial history and its path to greater autonomy within the Kingdom of Denmark The island's role in World War II and the Cold War as a strategic military outpost Thule Air Base: the U.S. military presence and its implications for NATO Greenland’s vast natural resources and their impact on international relations The growing importance of Arctic territories in global security strategies How climate change is transforming Greenland's geopolitical and economic significance Connect with an expert about Greenland: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

1 min

Santa Ana Winds: Nature's Power and Its Impacts on Communities

The Santa Ana Winds, a defining phenomenon of Southern California, are more than just a weather pattern—they are a powerful force shaping the region's environment, safety, and culture. These hot, dry winds can dramatically exacerbate wildfire risks, affect air quality, and even influence human behavior. Understanding the Santa Ana Winds is vital for addressing broader issues of climate change, disaster preparedness, and community resilience. Their far-reaching effects provide journalists with a range of compelling story angles, such as: The meteorological science behind the Santa Ana Winds and why they occur Their role in intensifying wildfires and efforts to mitigate these risks Health impacts, including effects on air quality and respiratory conditions Psychological and behavioral studies linked to wind-driven stress and aggression Historical and cultural significance of the Santa Ana Winds in Southern California How climate change might alter the frequency and intensity of these winds If you're covering the massive fires in California, let us help with your ongoing coverage. Connect with an expert about the Santa Ana Winds: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

1 min

#ExpertSpotlight: Dry January

As the New Year begins, millions are embracing "Dry January" – a challenge to abstain from alcohol for 31 days. This growing global movement is more than just a trend; it highlights the broader conversation about health, wellness, and lifestyle choices. Participating in Dry January has been linked to significant benefits, including improved physical and mental health, financial savings, and a greater awareness of alcohol's role in daily life. By exploring this topic, journalists can engage audiences in discussions about healthier living while addressing larger societal and cultural themes, such as: The short- and long-term health benefits of reducing alcohol consumption How sobriety challenges promote mental health and mindfulness Financial impacts of abstaining from alcohol for a month The rise of non-alcoholic beverage trends and innovations Societal perceptions of alcohol and shifting drinking norms Stories of personal transformation inspired by Dry January Covering - we can help! Connect with an expert about Dry January To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

View all posts