As the first month of the year comes to an end, students continue to commit to their New Year’s resolutions, hoping to avoid participating in National Quitter’s Day.
Millions of people celebrate the global tradition of welcoming in the New Year on Jan. 1, some committing to a set of goals that will begin on the first day of the year. These resolutions are often given up on National Quitter’s Day, or the second Friday of the month. This year, the day landed on Jan. 10.
A study published by Drive Research found that only 9% of Americans will keep their resolution for the entirety of the year.
Zoe Baker, a sophomore criminology major, said she plans not to become a part of the National Quitter’s Day statistics.
“I want to start eating whole foods more and, overall, stay away from processed foods,” Baker said. “I have been cooking myself dinner every night, and I am sticking to my resolution.”
It is easy for students to create goals for themselves and start the year with good intentions, but it is common to lose motivation as the year progresses. As science suggested, New Year’s Resolutions are difficult to achieve.
Mikayla Amstutz, a sophomore biology major, said she has a different approach to maintaining her goal.
“This year, I want to be more mindful of what is entering my body,” Amstutz said. “I am not being strict, though. I did get fast food this month, but I am buying different foods during my grocery trips and staying away from making foods that aren’t natural.”
Eating healthier and saving money are the top two resolutions for U.S. adults to make in 2025, with exercising more coming in third and losing weight holding the fourth spot.
Baker said that although she wants to be consistent with her goals, she also wants to create a positive outlook that will help motivate her to do so.
“You are still sticking to your resolution whether it’s 90% of it or 100%,” she said. “It’s okay to have a few days off throughout the year.”
In order for students on campus to maintain their goals all 365 days of the year, Kent State offers a surplus of resources that can be useful such as success coaching, career services and academic advising.
Emma Campbell is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].
