Why I Don’t Believe in New Year’s Resolutions
As we round out the year, many people start setting New Year’s resolutions. But if I’m honest, I think New Year’s resolutions are dumb.
Most people treat them like wishes instead of goals. There’s no plan, no roadmap and no real accountability.
A few years ago, I replaced resolutions with a practice that’s more intentional, more effective, and far more sustainable.
The Joy Audit
Instead of writing a list of hopes for the new year, I look back at the year that’s ending and ask two simple questions:
- What brought me joy this year?
- What brought me stress this year?
I think about the people, places and experiences that filled me up…and the ones that drained me.
Then I act on it:
- The people who bring me joy? I add them to my calendar for next year – lunches, dinners, trips, all of it.
- The people or environments that cause stress? I intentionally keep them off my calendar.
It’s simple but powerful. This process has helped me build more meaningful, balanced years than any resolution ever could.
How This Helps Your Speaking Business
This month, I want to challenge you to do the same, but for your speaking business.
Ask yourself:
- What speaking engagements or clients brought me the most energy and fulfillment this year?
- Which ones delivered the strongest ROI – financially, professionally or relationally?
- Where did I feel most aligned with my message, audience and purpose?
- What parts of my business do I look forward to, and which do I consistently procrastinate on?
- Which types of events or industries are investing in my expertise, and which drain time or margin?
- What habits, patterns or relationships have moved my business forward…and which have held it back?
- Where am I saying “yes” out of fear or scarcity instead of alignment or strategy?
Once you’ve answered these, you’ll start to see what deserves more of your time next year and what needs to be edited out.
Add the things (and people) that energize you to your calendar early and give yourself permission to clear space from the things that don’t.
Added bonus if you take this same approach with your personal life, too.
Your Turn
As speakers and solopreneurs, our time and energy are our most precious resources.
How will you use yours wisely in 2026 (and beyond) to grow your income and impact?
Join Me for Open Office Hours
To help you close out the year strong, I’ll be hosting open office hours this Thursday, November 6.
You can drop in anytime during the hour to ask your burning questions about the business of speaking.
Stay for the full session or pop in, ask, and go. It’s completely up to you.
My goal is to help you wrap up this year with clarity and step into 2026 with intention and cohesion.
I’d love to see you there.