As the first week of January draws to a close, new research confirms what many have long suspected: a significant number of Brits have already waved the white flag on their New Year's pledges. A stark 8% of adults admit they expect to abandon their resolutions before the first seven days are out.
The Fast Fade of January Ambition
A study of 2,000 UK adults, commissioned by McDonald's following the launch of its Big Arch burger, paints a picture of optimistic ambition quickly tempered by reality. It found that almost half (46%) of Brits believe their resolutions will last only two months or less. While 40% of the population set a goal for 2026, this figure soars to 71% among the Gen Z demographic.
The primary motivations for making a resolution are clear: personal improvement leads the way at 55%, followed by the desire for a clean slate (51%) and relishing a challenge (34%). Over half (52%) believe the tradition is a worthwhile method for achieving targets, and a committed 67% say they go "all in" when they set a goal.
Why Good Intentions Crumble
Despite this initial enthusiasm, the path to self-improvement is littered with obstacles. The research pinpointed the key reasons why pledges are broken. Topping the list is a simple but powerful force: the inability to resist temptation. Many confessed they find it overwhelmingly tough to say no to the things they love, whether that's indulgent food, skipping a gym session, or other pleasures.
Other major culprits include failing to see quick results, losing interest, and simply forgetting about the resolution altogether. This collective struggle explains why a mere 17% of people successfully maintain their New Year's promises for a full twelve months.
"Setting yourself a resolution can put the pressure on – especially if you go public with it," a spokesperson for McDonald's commented. "It can also make you realise all the things you might miss out on. Resolutions can feel like a great idea on January 1st, but life isn't lived in spreadsheets - sometimes the best decision is saying yes to the things that make you happy."
Strategies for Success and Acceptance of Failure
The study also explored tactics that could improve the odds. Nearly half (46%) believe resolutions are more achievable when tackled with a friend, though only 12% have tried this collaborative approach. Meanwhile, 40% think breaking a large goal into smaller, manageable milestones is more effective than pursuing one mammoth aim.
Ultimately, the research suggests a national acceptance of imperfect follow-through. With 49% struggling to maintain their resolutions and just 21% sailing through effortlessly, the fast-food giant's spokesperson offered a conciliatory note: "As the research shows, most people set resolutions for self-improvement, but nearly half admit they don't last beyond two months. That's okay - because life is about balance - and treating yourself is part of that."
The full list of the top 20 reasons or excuses for breaking a New Year's resolution, as identified by OnePoll, includes:
- Feeling demotivated
- Giving in to temptation
- Finding it too difficult
- Not seeing the results quickly enough
- Not fitting with their routine
Other notable excuses ranged from becoming ill and bad weather to pretending to be ill and even finding the resolution too easy.
