Resolutions vs. Goals: 2022 Edition

By Rachel Parodneck, LCSW

New Year, New you. Or so society may pressure you to believe. Chances are, you’ve made resolutions for New Years. If not this year, then definitely in the past. Some people may confuse resolutions with goals. While resolutions are nice fantasies, long-term goals are methods by which you can set yourself up for success. What if I told you there are proven ways to keep your goals on track?

What exactly is the difference between a formal New Years Resolution and a Goal? 

New Year's resolutions are short-lived and usually fizzle out within the first couple months of the year. Common resolutions include signing up for a gym membership, doing a “Dry January,” losing 10 lbs, and the list goes on. Many resolutions by their very nature can be punitive and focus on the perceived deficit(s) in your life.

A goal, however, is very different. A goal can be set and achieved year round. It is an addition to the life you are already living, not punishment for a perceived bad habit. It is a plan to make your life better. Although some goals can be time sensitive, goals by their very nature can be fluid, positive, and aspirational. 

When I treat my therapy clients, I often create a treatment plan, which is a roadmap for getting their  life to where they want to be. Treatment plans can be lengthy and clinical, or simple and in the client’s own words. They consist of objectives that lead to achieving one’s goals. These treatment plans are collaborative, ever-evolving and always being updated as therapy progresses. 

You can also create your own treatment plan a.k.a. roadmap. In creating your roadmap, think about the different areas of your life where you would like to see change. Create categories for your goals (if you have multiple goals) that are specific and measurable. 

A goal and objectives could be, for example:

Goal: Spending more time with friends and family. 

Objectives: 

1- Call one friend per week

2- Have two family game nights every month

3- FaceTime your parents biweekly. 

Treatment plans work best in therapy because you have a professional holding your hand who has been trained at creating them and is also able to hold you accountable to reaching your goals to whatever degree you decide.

Ask me about your customized treatment plan today–use the contact form on my website or email me here!