The beginning of any new year is a time for reflection, renewal, and for many of us, resolutions. This is the time that we vow to finally stick to our exercise routine, be more mindful with our eating, or spend more time in nature.
Yet, all too often, our best intentions falter. According to Greg McKeown in his great book Effortless, the secret to making resolutions stick lies in the power of ritual. Unlike habits, which can feel mechanical and mundane, rituals are powered by meaning and purpose. They’re deliberate acts that we look forward to and value deeply. McKeown argues that rituals transform ordinary behaviors into something more significant, making them more likely to endure.
Take a task as mundane as cleaning up the kitchen. Nine times out of ten, I’ll grab a pair of headphones and throw on a podcast or a playlist, which automatically transforms the task into a much more fulfilling experience.
Or consider the simple difference between starting a day with a ritualized morning walk versus merely “trying to get some steps in.” When a walk becomes part of a sacred morning routine—paired with a moment of gratitude and a favourite item of clothing—it becomes more than exercise; it’s a cornerstone of your day. Rituals like these elevate the task from a chore to a meaningful, intentional practice, something you’re more inclined to keep up.
The power of ritual also extends beyond individual actions. It can provide structure to chaotic schedules, anchor us during challenging times, and connect us to our deeper values. By viewing resolutions as rituals, not only do we increase our chances of following through, but we also infuse our lives with a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and joy.
If you have already set resolutions and stumbled along the way, just begin again. This time, don’t just set resolutions—ritualize them. Make them moments you savor rather than tasks you check off. By harnessing the power of ritual, you can transform your good intentions into lasting, life-enhancing practices.
