80% of us have failed to keep our New Year's Resolution, but it's not too late to try again: expert

Feb. 29, 2024 - PRLog -- London Medical Laboratory's latest research has revealed that half of all Brits made at least one Resolution at the beginning of the year, but 46% gave up on their goal by the end of January and a whopping 80% by the end of February. Only 9% of us are likely to last the year.

While some of our Resolutions will be 'nice to haves', such as learning a new skill, 45% of people make a Resolution around losing weight or getting into shape. The consequences of giving up on these resolves can be serious.

Dr Avinash Hari Narayanan (MBChB), Clinical Lead at London Medical Laboratory, says: 'Our research reveals a worrying but understandable lack of will when it comes to keeping our New Year's Resolutions. For the great majority who have already given up on their goals, our message is that they should give themselves a pass and have another go. A lot may be riding on the result.

'So why have most people given up on their Resolutions, particularly health goals, already? Tellingly, 43% of us actually expect we will give up on our Resolutions after just one month. That's not exactly setting ourselves up for success.

'The real issue is that it takes two months to successfully fix a new routine in place, and most people have lost heart by then. A study published in the 'British Journal of Health Psychology' found that it takes 59 days for a particular behaviour, such as a new exercise plan, to become routine.

'It's also vital to break our Resolutions down into small chunks that can be measured.  Measurable goals not only show progress but inspire us when we see our data. They also give us a chance to celebrate small wins when we reach a milestone.

'So how can we measure the success of the Resolution at the top of most people's lists: living healthier, losing weight and exercising? One way is through simple finger-prick general health profile blood tests that monitor our liver & kidney function, bone health, iron levels, diabetes (HbA1c) and cholesterol. By taking a general health test, perhaps every few months, we can see exactly how much of an impact our new diet plan or exercise regime is having.

'London Medical Laboratory's General Health Profile blood test can be taken at home through the post, or at one of the many drop-in clinics that offer these tests across London and nationwide in over 120 selected pharmacies and health stores. For full details, see: https://www.londonmedicallaboratory.com/product/general-health