It’s that time again… the beginning of a new year, and you might be thinking about everything you want to accomplish in 2025. That could be making lists, setting big goals, or wanting to make major changes.
But what if the start of a new year is less about reinventing ourselves and more about recommitting to what truly matters?
Statistics show that 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by February, and only 8% of people stick with them the entire year. But, I don’t believe that’s because we lack motivation or determination. It’s because we often overcomplicate what real change looks like.
Throughout my career and working with the community through Future Foundation, I’ve noticed that the people who create lasting change aren’t usually making the biggest resolutions. They’re the ones taking small, intentional steps every day.
The Power of Clear, Simple Goals
This year, I’ve set an intention to read one book every month. It’s straightforward, manageable, and, most importantly, something I can build into my routine. I chose this goal because reading helps me grow, learn new perspectives, and stay grounded — all things that matter deeply to me.
When I was playing basketball, I learned that the most effective plays weren’t always the most complicated ones. Sometimes, the simple pick-and-roll executed well was more powerful than an elaborate offensive scheme. The same principle applies to our personal goals.
Why Intentions Matter More Than Resolutions
I’ve noticed that when we make resolutions, we often set ourselves up for disappointment with goals that are too big or too vague. But intentions? They’re different. They’re about the journey, about making conscious daily choices that align with what truly matters to us.
According to a Forbes Health/One Poll survey, the most common resolutions people make year after year remain surprisingly consistent. In 2024, the top resolutions included improving mental health, fitness, weight loss, finances, and diet.
But here’s the thing — the problem isn’t with these goals themselves. It’s how we approach them.
Think about it this way:
- Instead of “I want to get in shape,” try “I’ll take a 15-minute walk each day.”
- Rather than “I need to eat better,” consider “I’ll cook dinner at home three times a week.”
- Instead of “I should save more,” decide, “I’ll set aside $50 from each paycheck.”
We’re much more likely to succeed when we break down these big aspirations into specific, manageable actions.
How to Build Your Foundation to Success
Success comes from having strong fundamentals. Here are three key practices that can help support any intention you set:
1. Daily Movement
Whether it’s a morning stretch, a walk around the block, or shooting hoops with your kids, find ways to move that bring you joy. Start small — even five minutes counts. When I was training, we didn’t start with full-court scrimmages; we began with basic drills and built from there.
2. Quiet Time for Reflection
Take a few moments each day to check in with yourself. For me, this happens in the morning before everyone else is up. It’s when I can think clearly about what matters and set my intentions for the day ahead.
3. Connection with Others
Share your journey with people who support you. Having others in your corner makes all the difference. I learned this early in my career and have seen it proven true time and time again.
Making It Work in Real Life
Here’s what I’ve learned about turning intentions into reality:
Start Where You Are
You don’t need perfect conditions to begin. Just like you don’t need a professional court to practice your shot, you don’t need everything to be perfectly aligned to start working toward your goals.
Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
There will be days when things don’t go as planned. That’s not failure — it’s just part of the process. What matters is getting back on track the next day.
Keep It Simple
I’ve seen how small, consistent actions add up to create real change. It’s not about making dramatic transformations overnight. It’s about showing up day after day and making choices that align with your values and goals. And when you look back, you won’t even believe how much you accomplished.
Just like my reading goal. One book a month. Not 50 books, not “read more,” just one book each month. Clear, doable, and meaningful.
As you think about your own intentions for 2025, ask yourself:
- What small change would make a meaningful difference in your life?
- How can you make that change simple and clear?
- Who can support you on this journey?
Every great achievement starts with a single step. Just like every game begins with a single play, every positive change in our lives begins with one small action.
Let’s make 2025 about progress, not pressure. About growth, not perfection. I’m excited to see what you can achieve, one intentional step at a time.
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