Why Announcing New Year’s Resolutions Often Backfires

Why Announcing New Year’s Resolutions Often Backfires

Yesterday, I talked about dopamine 🧠—that fascinating neuro-hormone.

Today, let’s take a step back.

Dopamine is released when:

✅ You achieve a desired result

✅ You anticipate a desired result

But here’s the question: what is a “desired result”? 🤔

It could be something positive, like:

✔ A satisfied client

✔ A successful operation

✔ A pay raise

✔ A productive, fulfilling day

But here’s the catch:

A “desired result” can also be:

⚠ Avoiding an undesirable situation.

Why is this a problem?

Because “undesirable situations” often involve:

⛔ Avoiding setbacks (not failing or facing challenges)

⛔ Staying in your comfort zone (not doing anything uncomfortable)

Here’s the issue:

Avoiding discomfort also gives your brain a dopamine hit.

Our primal brain registers it as success—even when nothing has been accomplished.

So, what happens when you say:"Tomorrow, I’ll start X."

The answer?

You’ve stated your resolution, it feels good, and your brain releases dopamine.

But… you haven’t done anything yet. 🧐

The solution?

Announcing your resolution isn’t enough.

You need a plan:

🔸 Why are you doing this?

🔹 How will you achieve it? (specific and actionable)

🔸 How will you track and celebrate progress?

🔹 Who will hold you accountable? (because that truly helps)

Simple? No.

If it were easy, everyone would stick to their resolutions.

Need help?

👉 Reach out—I’m here to guide you.