REIMAGINING RESOLUTIONS:
A Guide to Actually Sticking to Them
Written by Abbey Ziv
I met Abbey Ziv, a transformational leadership coach and facilitator, through a mutual acquaintance I was getting to know who said, “You need to know Abbey!” My first encounter with her was filled with connection, laughter and, you guessed it, shared values. I just knew I had found another kindred spirit dedicated to making the world a better place. To top it off, I discovered that she is also a Hope Ranch Resident! Abbey will be sharing a fresh perspective on setting New Year’s resolutions, along with some tips for achieving them. Take it away, Abbey!
It’s January—A Fresh Start
This time of year feels like standing on the starting line of a marathon, armed with shiny new resolutions: “This year, I’ll finally…” (insert your heartfelt goal here). But here’s the hard truth: 80% of New Year’s resolutions fizzle out by February. Yep, even the “this time is different” ones. Why?
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Unrealistic goals
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No clear plan
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Zero accountability
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That pesky post-January motivation crash
Good news: it doesn’t have to be this way.
My Running Confession
A few years ago, after huffing, puffing, and blistering my way through the gorgeous She Is Beautiful Santa Barbara 10k, I declared: “I’ll run three miles, four times a week—and longer on weekends!” I thought, “I’ve run a marathon before. How hard could it be?” Turns out, very hard.
Two weeks in, I’d only laced up twice. Life was chaotic—kids needing snacks, volunteering at their school, work piling up—and as I dismissed all my reminders, I would tell myself, “I’ll start fresh next week.” Sound familiar?
Here’s where I went wrong: my goal was ambitious but rigid. It didn’t account for the reality of my schedule, nor was it tied to a deeper intention. Sure, I wanted to move more, but why? It wasn’t just about running; I wanted to feel vibrant, connected and energized in my life.
When I reimagined my approach—replacing the rigid plan with a more balanced, intentional one—I started to thrive. I prioritized movement in ways that worked for me: hiking with friends, occasional runs with a killer playlist, an amazing circuit gym down the street, and yoga to mix things up. Small, heartfelt shifts, anchored in intention, proved far more sustainable (and fun!) than grand, unrealistic leaps.
Here’s the takeaway: aligning your actions with your why transforms a fleeting goal into a lasting habit.
The Secret Sauce to Achieving Your Goals
Here’s what I learned from my running misstep: goals are just the outcome. Sure, they give you a destination, but what really gets you there is the environment you create around them.
Think about it: a flower doesn’t bloom just because it’s spring. It thrives when it’s in nutrient-rich soil, with just the right amount of sunlight and water. Your goals are no different. The conditions you cultivate—the “inputs”—are what make success possible.
Instead of chasing rigid outcomes, what if you focused on creating an inner environment that naturally supports your success? That’s where creating an intention comes in.
Intentions lay the foundation for sustainable growth by anchoring you in your “why” and allowing flexibility for life’s curveballs. This foundation is built on three key components:
- Clarity: Knowing your true direction, free from distractions and noise.
- Self-compassion: Offering yourself grace when things don’t go perfectly.
- Joy: Finding what fuels you and keeps you motivated.
When I shifted my focus to these elements—letting my movement be joyful, flexible, and tied to my deeper intention of feeling vibrant and energized—it transformed the way I approached my goals. Instead of forcing a rigid plan, I started to enjoy the process.
The secret? Align your goals with your why and nurture the environment that helps them bloom.
Intentions First, Goals Second
Most people start with a goal: “I’ll run a marathon in under 4 hours,” or a resolution: “I’ll exercise and eat healthier this year.” But starting with an intention roots you in your “why” and helps you stay aligned, no matter what.
Before diving into goals, ask yourself: What’s the quality of life I want this year?
More joy? Deep peace? Meaningful connections? Better health? and What small actions would invite that quality today?
- If it’s peace, start small: 5 quiet minutes in the morning or a midday walk.
- If it’s connection: Define what connection means to you and filter your choices through that lens. Maybe it’s reaching out to a friend, joining a group, or nurturing a relationship.
What’s the one thing you want to invite into your life this year? What are all the ways you could do that? By anchoring your actions in your intention, you align your goals with what truly matters to you.
How to Stick with Your Goals
Joining the elite 20% of people who actually achieve their resolutions isn’t rocket science—but it does require this shift in perspective and approach. Once you’ve set a heartfelt intention, here’s how to gain traction and make it to the finish line:
- Set realistic goals. Break big dreams into smaller, achievable wins.
- Plan for challenges. Motivation will dip – anticipate obstacles and be ready.
- Build accountability. Partner with someone, either a friend or a professional, who shares or understands your goals.
- Remember your “why.” Write it down and make it visible.
Pro tip: Start where you are—not where you think you “should” be. Small, consistent steps build momentum. For more strategies at creating new habits, check out Atomic Habits by James Clear.
Progress Over Perfection
Instead of chasing perfection (which actually never exists so you are bound for failure and disappointment if that’s your goal), focus on progress. What if your mantra became: “It’s not about how often I forget, but how quickly I remember.”
If you go off track, it’s okay – life is full and change is the only constant – no week, or day, is ever “normal.” The magic is when you lovingly reconnect with your heartfelt intention and recommit to that daily practice.
Quick Tips to Stay on Track
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Create a powerful affirmation and repeat it daily.
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Use a habit tracker and set encouraging reminders.
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Celebrate small wins to build momentum and reinforce progress.
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Surround yourself with a supportive community or partner to stay inspired.
Ready to Begin?
This year, ditch abandoned resolutions for heartfelt intentions, small steps, and joyful progress. The magic lies in rising, resetting, and recommitting—again and again. You in? Let’s make this year one of purpose, joy, and meaningful change.
Abbey Ziv is a Transformational Leadership Coach and Facilitator dedicated to empowering conscious, high-achieving women to create greater fulfillment and meaningful impact. Discover more about Abbey’s unique approach to success—or explore how she can help you achieve your heartfelt dreams— Here.
