The resolutions: believe a little less, but act a little more

The days between Christmas and New Year have a particular rhythm.

Daily life slows down a bit. We digest, in the broadest sense.

We look back and project ourselves, gently, into the year ahead.

And the resolutions return, like a seasonal classic.

Every year, the same old tune:

"The resolutions don't hold."

"We already know how this ends."

Everyone knows it. And yet, many people still take it.

Because the desire to do things differently is real.

To start again on a better footing. To regain momentum. To see more clearly.

In a world where everything moves fast, we also find ourselves hoping that human change can happen quickly too.

A program. A method. A "turnkey" formula.

As if deciding were enough.

This expectation is not so different from what I observe in my work with managers and professionals.

As with resolutions, we sometimes hope that a half-day workshop, an impactful conference or an hour of coaching can be enough to set everything right.

That a strong awareness can, in itself, transform daily life upon returning to work.

That's understandable.

When the burden is high, when energy is at a premium, resolution becomes almost a promise of quick relief.

A shortcut to something simpler.

However, in both cases, the resolutions that hold are rarely spectacular.

These are the ones that survive the first busy Monday.

Those that fit into a real schedule.

Those that can be repeated without needing heroic motivation.

This is exactly what a recent article in The Conversation on positive psychology highlights.

Even wellness specialists don't follow perfect formulas.

The key lies in making simple, tailored choices that support everyday life, without seeking a major, instant change of direction.

Lasting change cannot be bought with a click and certainly is not delivered in 24 hours.

It is built slowly, often discreetly, with small gestures that have meaning.

What if, this year, the resolutions became more concrete?

No need to aim for a sharp turn.

Just choose a small, realistic step.

For example :

• saying no to a process that no longer really brings value

• to resume an important project that had been left unfinished

• walking a few minutes a day to create a real break

• to reconnect with someone with whom the relationship has weakened

• set aside some screen-free time to think differently

These are not grand resolutions.

But it's often those that hold up.

I believe it a little less.

But to do a little more.

Until then, I wish you a very happy end to 2025. May it be gentle, bright, and may it offer you beautiful moments of presence and clarity before the coming year.