First paragraph
Every January, I see the same pattern-- personally, professionally, everywhere. We start the year with a list of things we’re determined to cut out: No more sugar. Less scrolling. Stop eating out. We treat resolutions like a tightening of rules, as if success only comes from shrinking our lives down to the very few things we’re allowed to keep.
But what if this year looked different?
This January, I’m encouraging people (and practicing this myself) to shift from restriction to addition. At the Y, we’re calling them “additive resolutions.” Instead of asking, What should I stop doing? we ask a more energizing question: What can I add to my life that will help me feel stronger, happier, or more connected?
When we focus on what we can add—not what we must remove—it changes everything.
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Why Additive Resolutions Work
In my work at the Y, I spend a lot of time thinking about how people build healthy, sustainable habits. One thing I’ve seen again and again is that we stick with goals when they feel positive, meaningful, and realistic - not punishing.
Traditional resolutions rely heavily on willpower. But research and experience show that when we frame goals around achievement, relationships, and belonging, we’re much more likely to follow through.
When we focus on what we can add—not what we must remove—it changes everything. You start building a life you actually want to maintain, not one you’re constantly trying to escape. And you create the opportunity for a more connected community.
Small Additions, Big Impact
The best part is that additive resolutions don’t need to be big or complicated. In fact, the smaller and more enjoyable they are, the more likely they’ll stick. Here are a few ideas I often share:
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Add connection: Schedule a weekly walk with a friend, or make a family swim night part of your routine.
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Add movement: Try one class that genuinely excites you. Maybe try yoga, cycling, or water aerobics instead of forcing a rigid seven-day workout plan.
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Add calm: Begin or end your day with five minutes of reflection, gratitude, or deep breathing.
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Add community: Volunteer once a month or mentor a young person in your neighborhood.
These little additions create momentum. Over time, they stack up into something meaningful - more energy, more relationships, more confidence, more belonging.
Make It Stick
You don’t have to overhaul your life to start fresh in the new year. You just need to add one good thing: one habit, one action, one moment of intention that makes your days brighter and more balanced.
Because when we add joy, movement, and connection, we don’t just change our routines. We change our outlook.
Here’s to a year of adding more in, and feeling better for it. If you’re looking for a place to start, your local Y community is here to support you every step of the way.
Happy New Year!
