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Every January, millions of us set resolutions, fueled by the promise of a fresh start. But by February, the gym is emptier, the planner sits unopened, and our aspirations feel out of reach. Why do so many resolutions fail? The answer lies in how we frame them.
When we say, “I want to go to the gym more,” we’re focusing on a single behavior, not a bigger picture of transformation. Resolutions like these lack the critical framework to guide us. James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, explains it perfectly: resolutions fail because they focus on actions instead of the underlying values and mindset required to sustain them .
For example, going to the gym isn’t an effective resolution on its own. Why? Because it’s a tactic, not a strategy. A more effective resolution might be: “I want to be healthier because it’s important I’m present for my loved ones.” This mindset shift creates room for multiple pathways to health, such as improving your diet, prioritizing sleep, reducing stress, and yes, going to the gym.
Clear argues that instead of chasing a behavior, we should ask, “What kind of person do I want to become?” Framing resolutions this way helps us focus on shifting identity rather than ticking boxes. This reframing gives you a compass for decision-making, where your actions align with the type of person you aspire to be.
Superpowers as a Guide to Framing Resolutions
Our Superpowers provide a helpful guide for framing resolutions. To achieve any resolution, it helps to identify the underlying Superpowers that power behavior. In the Gravitas framework (Chapter 6 of my book), these strengths are the tools that help us achieve our goals. For example, if your resolution is to be healthier, you might deploy the Achieving Superpower, which focuses on goal-setting and prioritization. If your resolution is to be more outgoing, you might call on the Performing Superpower to step into social situations with confidence.
From Wishful Thinking to Actionable Change
Here’s how to set resolutions that stick:
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Define the Person You Want to Become
Start with identity, not behavior. What kind of person do you want to be?Write it down: “I want to be a healthier, more outgoing, or more optimistic person.”
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Identify Your Superpowers
What strengths will help you achieve this identity? Whether it’s Achieving, Performing, or Believing, think of these Superpowers as the mindset and corresponding skills you’ll deploy to stay aligned with your goal. Each of our 8 Gravitas Superpowers can guide you in crafting resolutions that reflect the person you aspire to be. Personally, I realized that in my quest to be healthier, I love group fitness classes because it plays to my Performing Superpower and enjoying the energy of other people (I don’t have Achieving as a Superpower, so it’s hard to work out on my own!).
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Create a Plan
Break down your resolution into actionable steps. For example:
A healthier you might start with swapping soda for water, taking a daily walk, or meal prepping on Sundays. -
A more outgoing you might schedule one coffee chat a week, speak to a stranger every day, or join a group activity.
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Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Resolutions fail when we view setbacks as failures. Instead, track the small wins that reflect your shift in identity—every healthy meal, every gym visit, every meaningful connection. Each time you do something, you’re “voting” for the person you want to be.
As we step into the new year, let’s shift our approach to resolutions. Instead of chasing behaviors, let’s redefine who we are and deploy the mindset and Superpowers needed to get there. This year, it’s not about what you’ll do—it’s about who you’ll become.
With gratitude,
Lisa Sun
GRAVITAS Founder and CEO
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