New Year's Resolutions That Actually Stick: The Science Behind Success

New Year's resolutions - they're as traditional as champagne at midnight, but just as likely to fizzle out before February rolls around. Did you know that while 40% of Americans make resolutions, only 9-12% feel successful a year later? Yet here's the surprising twist: those who set resolutions are actually 10 times more likely to achieve meaningful change than those who don't.

Join Holly and Jim as they dive deep into the science and psychology of New Year's resolutions. Whether you're a resolution skeptic or a goal-setting enthusiast, you'll discover why the "fresh start effect" makes January 1st so powerful, and more importantly, how to harness that energy for lasting change in 2025.

Discussed on the episode:

• The unexpected #1 New Year's resolution (hint: it's not weight loss!)
• Why treating resolutions like temporary fixes sets you up for failure
• 10 common resolution mistakes that derail even the most motivated people
• The psychology behind successful goal-setters (and how to become one)
• Why going "all in" in January might be sabotaging your success
• The surprising truth about willpower (and what to rely on instead)
• How baseball wisdom can help you handle life's curveballs
• Why waiting until April to "have fun" with your goals is a recipe for failure

What is Weight Loss And ...?

Your go-to hangout for everything weight loss… and beyond! “Weight Loss and…” is brought to you by the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and hosted by seasoned experts in weight management, Dr. James Hill and Dr. Holly Wyatt.

We’re your friendly guides through the maze of weight loss, but with a fun twist. We’re not here to preach the latest fad diet or promise a miracle workout. Instead, we’re all about embracing the journey, acknowledging there’s more than one way to hit your health goals, and having a good laugh while we’re at it.

We get it: weight loss can be tough, and sometimes pretty serious business. But why can’t it also be enjoyable? With a side of humor, we’ll bring you science-backed insights, real-life stories, and some hard truths. (Spoiler alert: there’s no magic answer - but that doesn’t mean we can’t find what works best for you.)

“Weight Loss and…” is your inclusive space to explore, question, and learn — and to feel part of a community along the way. This isn’t just about shedding pounds. It’s about gaining perspective, building better habits, and enjoying the ride.

So if you’re up for honest conversations about weight loss - spiced with a little science and a whole lot of fun - pull up a chair, plug in those earbuds, and let’s see where this journey takes us.