How to avoid National Quitter’s Day after making a New Year’s resolution

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Whether the goal is improving physical health, getting finances in order, or prioritizing mental well-being, many people struggle to maintain their New Year's resolutions.

Friday marks National Quitter's Day, which falls on the second Friday of the new year and is often considered the point when motivation begins to decline and goals are abandoned.

A major reason resolutions fail is that they are often influenced by outside pressures rather than personal desire.

Licensed professional clinical counselor Rebecca Robinette explained this concept is known as self-determination theory.

According to Robinette, goals are more likely to fall apart when they are based on what people feel they should be doing instead of what they genuinely want.

"For many people, our goals don't stick because they’re not coming from inside of us," she said, noting that external expectations can override intrinsic motivation.

However, there are ways to avoid falling victim to Quitter's Day. Robinette emphasized the importance of self-reflection and taking time to understand personal values and motivations.

"We're gonna wake up one day and go 'I don’t even know why I'm doing this. I don't know who I am, why I'm here, what is this for?' Until you start to figure out what you want, and rewiring some of those programs...new year, new you...It's okay to do it in small increments. It's the consistency that matters instead of one big heave," she explained.

As the new year continues, experts advise being realistic, intentional, and fully prepared when working toward long-term goals.