Resolutions have deep roots through history

Where do you stand on New Year's resolutions, Yuma?

Traditionally, many look to a new year as a new beginning, with fresh hopes of reaching a personal goal.

It's a concept that's deeply rooted in history, extending at least to the Babylonians over 4,000 years ago. The Babylonians would make promises to earn the favor of the gods, such as to return borrowed items and pay off debts. If one broke the resolution, it was thought to be bad luck.

The tradition has continued in some form since then, but the focus has changed.

According to statisticbrain.com, which compiles a variety of statistics on a wide range of topics, the No. 1 resolution for 2012 was to lose weight.

In fact, the top 10 resolutions included two others with a health angle: staying fit and quitting smoking. Others included getting organized, spending less money, enjoying life, learning something, helping others, falling in love and spending more time with family.

It was interesting to note that despite all the talk one hears about New Year's resolutions, only about 45 percent of Americans regularly choose a resolution.

And the younger you are, the more likely you are to succeed. About 39 percent of the resolution makers in their 20s will achieve their goal. For those over 50? The number drops to 14 percent.

As is the case in so many things, the biggest problem with having a successful resolution stems from a simple lack of planning. It's not enough to say, “This is my goal.” Experts say you need to also come up with a game plan to help reach that goal.

Think back to the Babylonians and choose something simple and attainable, with measurable progress.

What will your resolutions be this year? Let us know — share your resolutions at the end of this article online at http://www.yumasun.com/sections/opinion/editorials.php.