Chris Stephens

New Year’s resolutions have evolved over time and have become a fixture in society. Promises are made every year to improve, but it’s a waste of time. A 2007 study by Richard Wiseman from the University of Bristol adds substance to my claim. He found that 88 percent of people who set New Year’s resolutions fail. This is more startling because 52 percent thought they could make it through the year. I want to focus on those whose resolution is to lose weight this year.

At the beginning of every year, gyms across the country are flooded with new members because of New Year’s resolutions. Who are these people fooling? Gym regulars get that same feeling when they have to wait in line for overcrowded machines. Working out is part of a culture, and it requires dedication to fit into your schedule regardless of how busy you are on a daily basis. You can say you’re going to work out as much as you want, but you need to do it at least four times a week to see any significant improvement. That is simply too much for people who aren’t dedicated.

Eating healthy is another New Year resolution that gets me. Why say you’re going to start eating healthy when you know there is McDonald’s, Taco Bell and Wendy’s just a jump away? It’s not going to take much to be in the mood for fast food after a long day at work and grocery store prices on produce items don’t help the cause. If you’re set on buying healthy groceries, many people are convinced organic is the way to go. In reality, it’s still okay to buy the standard item and save yourself a few bucks in the process.

New Year’s resolutions will always be around, but I just hate to see people get so amped up about it and not follow through. As studies indicate, most of them are let down.