Are New Year’s resolutions a powerful tool for self-improvement, or are they simply habits waiting to be abandoned? This debate examines whether setting goals at the start of the year genuinely leads to lasting change or whether the tradition creates false optimism followed by predictable failure. On one side, resolutions are seen as effective because they leverage psychological momentum, reflection, and social accountability. A new year can act as a mental reset, helping individuals reassess priorities, set clear goals, and commit to healthier routines, career growth, or personal development. Supporters argue that failure does not invalidate the system, but rather highlights poor execution or unrealistic expectations. On the other side, critics point to high abandonment rates, short-term motivation cycles, and the lack of structural support behind most resolutions. They argue that meaningful change depends on systems, habits, and environment, not symbolic dates. From this perspective, New Year’s resolutions may distract from sustainable planning and reinforce guilt rather than progress.