By Radley West
Ah, New Year’s resolutions—a grand tradition that involves setting life-changing goals on December 31, only to tuck them away like old holiday decorations by mid-January. But we keep doing it because nothing says “I’m serious about change” like announcing your dreams to a roomful of people wearing paper hats and holding champagne.
So here we are again. This year– 2025–is the year. You’ll be fit, organized, financially wise, and probably fluent in Italian, because why not? But before you grab that “New Year, New Me” banner, let’s be honest about what this journey entails.
The Gym Will Be Your Second Home—For Two Weeks
Every January, millions of us flood the gyms, decked out in brand-new activewear and brimming with enthusiasm. For the first two weeks, we’re unstoppable. We’re doing burpees, planking with zeal, and even attempting the occasional handstand. But by mid-January, most of us will have found a hundred more interesting ways to spend an evening—like reorganizing the junk drawer or watching documentaries about bread. If you’re still going strong by February, congratulations, you’re in the top 1% of resolution-setters.
Healthy Eating: Say Hello to Kale, for a While
The holiday cookies have barely settled, but come January, you’re all about green smoothies, chia seeds, and things that end in “-kale.” You tell yourself that this health kick will last forever. Soon, however, reality sets in. Kale tastes like yard clippings, and your soul remembers the sweet, sweet warmth of mac and cheese. Still, if you manage a few weeks of leafy greens, that’s something to be proud of—at least until you start dreaming of carbs and fall blissfully back into pasta’s embrace.
Financial Wisdom: The Best-Laid Budgets of Mice and Men
Financial responsibility is another favorite resolution. This year, you’ll save! You’ll be savvy! You’ll cut back on frivolous spending! Until you realize that coffee is essential, that the sale was amazing, and that life is short. Sure, setting a budget is a fantastic way to start the year, but once you’ve realized your financial plans are under siege by takeout and online shopping, cut yourself some slack. Just because it’s a “new year” doesn’t mean you won’t need a little retail therapy along the way.
The Secret to Resolutions: Realism (And a Good Laugh)
Setting goals is great. If you genuinely want to make changes, go for it! But maybe give yourself permission to go easy when you slip up. Goals should add to your life, not become another source of guilt and dread. So if you’re back to the old routines by mid-January, just remember: you’re in excellent company. Real change takes time, and there’s nothing wrong with celebrating small wins instead of aiming for a complete life overhaul.
Because here’s the truth: by this time next year, no one will remember whether you learned Italian, ran a marathon, or cut out carbs. The people around you care about the real you—quirks, carbs, and all. Embrace your ambition, but also embrace your humanness. After all, nothing’s funnier than seeing the same goals pop up on the list year after year and knowing that, someday, you just might get around to them.
Radley West is married to Dr. Andrew West and together they own Anytime Fitness Lake Murray and 33/18 Chiropractic Associates. Radley is a fun and friendly gym owner and personal trainer with over 20 years of experience helping people achieve non-traditional health goals. She and her team approach fitness by teaching clients to build better habits and create sustainable, feel-good fitness and nutrition routines—no need for intense six-pack aspirations (unless that’s your thing!).
Though she’s a competitive athlete, she’s the first to say that fitness should be fun, and she never takes herself too seriously. Her passion lies in empowering clients to lead healthier, more active lives, whether that means easily climbing stairs or improving posture. With the AFLM team’s positive, approachable style, they make fitness enjoyable and accessible to all.
