Why New Year's Resolutions Often Fall Short, and Why 2024 Can Still Be 'The Year of 'The Decision'

At Reset My Future, we're all about addressing substance abuse, taking action, and making lasting changes. But let's be honest – are we really going to tell you that you MUST call us now and start our program on January 1st?

No, we won't. Because we believe in setting you up for the best chance of success, and we know that New Year's resolutions don't always work, especially when it comes to battling substance abuse.

Think about it for a moment. Have your past New Year's resolutions truly led to lasting change? Maybe you committed to hitting the gym, quitting smoking, or overcoming substance abuse as a New Year's resolution before. Perhaps you stuck with it for a week, two, or even made it through the entire month of January as a 'new you.'

But let's face it, that's not the norm.

Why New Year's Resolutions Tend to Fail:

1. 80% of New Year's resolutions fail: That includes even the smallest resolutions like reading more or making the bed each morning.

2. Nothing changes if nothing changes: New Year's often becomes an excuse to delay what should have been addressed throughout the year, especially when it comes to drugs and alcohol. It's easy to keep going, convinced that come New Year's, you'll suddenly have the willpower to deal with it. But in reality, that's rarely the case.

3. The need for support: Just deciding to make a change, especially when dealing with substance abuse, isn't enough. You often need support, much like hiring a personal trainer for your fitness goals. Support and accountability play crucial roles in your success.

4. Pressure to succeed leads to pressure to fail: The immense expectations we place on ourselves to change deeply ingrained behaviours can be overwhelming. When we slip up, we often feel like failures, which can demotivate us further. The fear of failure can lead to self-sabotage.

5. Lack of SMART goals: Resolutions should be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound (SMART). Without clear goals and a well-defined approach, it's challenging to achieve meaningful change.

So, what should you do in 2024 if you're struggling with substance abuse?

2024: The Year of 'The Decision'

If you're feeling the need to address your substance abuse issues, make 2024 the year you take action. But we're not suggesting you go cold turkey on January 1st and expect your life to change overnight. Instead, make it the year of "The Decision."

1. Acknowledge the issue: See your substance abuse for what it is. Recognise its impact on your life and the damage it causes to yourself and those around you.

2. Don't be scared: You don't have to fear what you see. There is a better way, a path millions have chosen, and you can join them.

3. Reach out for help: Make 2024 the year your decision allows you to reach out for a helping hand. Decide on a date when you'll take the next step, whether it's talking to someone close to you, seeking advice from someone in recovery, or reaching out to us at Reset My Future.

At Reset My Future, we focus on helping individuals who have made the decision to change their behaviour with substances. We don't work with anyone who is 'forced' into it because we believe it must be entirely your choice. Our 12-week program is tailored to each individual, delivered entirely online, and designed to fit around your work and home life.

Addressing substance abuse is about improving all areas of your life, not just stopping substances to focus on recovery. If you're ready to make the decision or are curious about what your future could look like, get in touch with us today.