Changes

New Year resolutions seem to be very ancient and most of recorded history associates it with religious behaviour or trying to become a better person, invoking God or the gods in helping one achieve their goals. By the 19th century, New Year resolutions that were secular became increasingly common, with familiar ones, such as losing weight, as being one of the goals. Throughout history, it was common for people to struggle to keep their resolutions, with people often sliding back into their old habits. Nevertheless, New Year resolutions have been remarkably consistent, often focusing on behaviour and trying to improve one self. Reflection but looking forward, as symbolized by Janus, are also true in many cultures and has persisted until today.