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Methodology -

YouGov surveyed 1,122 US adults online from December 9 to 11, 2024. The sample was weighted to reflect the US population, accounting for differences in age, gender, race, education, voting history, and political affiliation, with a projected sample of 31% Democratic and 32% Republican.

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Who's doing it? -

Nearly a third of Americans (31%) are gearing up for a fresh start in 2025 by making New Year's resolutions or setting personal goals. This enthusiasm is most pronounced among younger adults, with 58% of those under 30 planning to make resolutions.

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Who's doing it? -

In contrast, only 24% of older Americans will be joining the resolution-making trend. This decline is particularly stark among seniors, with just 14% of adults aged 65 and older intending to make resolutions.

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Up and down -

Fewer Americans aged 30 to 44 are planning to make New Year's resolutions compared to last year. The share has dropped from 44% in December 2023 to 29% this year. Meanwhile, younger adults are slightly more likely to make resolutions now than last year, with 58% planning to do so, up from 52% in December 2023.

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Stats -

Hispanic Americans are most likely to embrace a fresh start in 2025, with 47% planning to make New Year's resolutions. This is followed by Black Americans at 38% and white Americans at 27%.

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Sticking to it -

Optimism is high for those making New Year's resolutions this year. A significant portion, 40%, are confident they'll stick to their goals throughout 2025. Another 50% are somewhat optimistic about their chances of success. However, a small minority, 5%, are less confident, believing it's not very likely they'll keep their resolutions. A mere 2% are pessimistic, stating it's not likely at all.

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Looking ahead -

From personal growth to family-focused goals, Americans have set a wide range of resolutions for 2025. Let's explore the top 20 most popular resolutions, covering everything from individual aspirations to building stronger relationships.

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20. Moving -

While not the most common resolution, some Americans, particularly those between 18 and 29, are setting their sights on building a new home, whether domestically or abroad, pointing to a desire for greater independence and a fresh start.

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19. Pursuing a new hobby -

Hobbies offer a valuable outlet for self-expression, stress relief, mindfulness, and community building. Recognizing their importance, many people have included 'finding a new hobby' among their resolutions for 2025.

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18. Spending more time with friends -

Americans are increasingly recognizing the importance of love and connection beyond romantic relationships. Nurturing friendships and building strong communities has become a priority for many, even finding its way onto their list of New Year's resolutions.

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17. Getting a new job -

A significant number of Americans are planning to make a career change in 2025, driven by a desire for greater financial stability, increased personal fulfillment, improved work conditions, or a combination of these factors.

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16. Pursuing a career goal -

The new year often brings a renewed sense of ambition. This translates into career goals for some, with a focus on launching new businesses, investing in personal projects, or striving for that coveted promotion.

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15. Quitting a bad habit -

Many Americans are committed to adopting healthier habits in 2025. This includes significant lifestyle changes like quitting smoking or drinking, as well as smaller adjustments like reducing screen time before bed. Even seemingly minor habits can have a substantial impact on overall well-being.

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14. Traveling -

For many Americans, 2025 is the year of adventure. Whether it's a classic road trip or an international escapade, expanding horizons is a top priority. US tourism trends for 2025 point toward a focus on personalized and meaningful experiences.

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13. Focusing on spiritual matters -

A 2023 Gallup poll revealed that 82% of Americans hold some form of spiritual belief. While 47% identify as religious, another 33% consider themselves spiritual but not religious. Reflecting this trend, 12% of Americans have made nurturing their spiritual side a key resolution for 2025.

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12. Paying down debts -

With an average American debt exceeding US$104,000 across mortgages, auto loans, student loans, and credit cards, it's no surprise that many are prioritizing debt reduction in 2025. Financial burdens can significantly impact many aspects of one’s well-being, making it a crucial goal for many.

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11. Spending more time with family -

For years, work-life balance has been a hot topic, with many people realizing they've been prioritizing work over precious time with loved ones. In 2025, a significant number of Americans are making a conscious effort to prioritize spending quality time with family.

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10. Improving relationships with friends or family -

In a world that often feels chaotic, many Americans are prioritizing relationships in 2025, as strengthening bonds with loved ones offers comfort and support during challenging times. This shift could also be influenced by the growing trend of self-reflection and therapy, with nearly 60 million adults in the US seeking counseling.

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9. Reading more -

Many Americans are setting a reading goal for 2025. Beyond simply escaping screens, reading offers numerous cognitive and emotional benefits. It strengthens your brain, boosts empathy, reduces stress, expands your vocabulary, and provides a window into different worlds and perspectives.

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8. Learning something new -

Learning new things isn't just good for your mood and self-esteem; it's also a powerful tool for brain health. Studies show that stimulating your mind through learning can help reduce the risk of mental decline.

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7. Improving mental health -

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the US, affecting over 19% of adults. A surge in youth mental health issues, driven by factors like inequality, job insecurity, and the climate crisis, has led to a growing emphasis on "improving mental health" as a key resolution for Americans.

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6. Losing weight -

Weight loss remains a common New Year's resolution for many Americans, with 17% aiming to shed pounds in 2025. This goal is often driven by a desire to improve both physical health and appearance.

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5. Eating healthier -

A healthier diet is a cornerstone of many 2025 resolutions, ranking among the top five goals. This focus on nutrition is closely linked to other popular resolutions, such as weight loss and improved mental well-being.

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4. Being happy -

Reflecting the interconnected nature of well-being, 'being happy' emerges as a 2025 resolution for many Americans. This personal goal, deeply influenced by other resolutions like improving health and finances, underscores a unique and individual journey toward happiness.

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3. Exercising more -

Exercising more consistently ranks among the top New Year's resolutions, solidifying its place as a popular goal for personal improvement. Beyond physical health benefits, people are increasingly recognizing the positive impact of exercise on mental well-being and its crucial role in maintaining mobility and independence as we age.

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2. Improving physical health -

A growing number of people are prioritizing their physical health in the new year, with 22% of respondents making it a key resolution. This suggests a renewed focus on self-care and a desire to improve overall well-being.

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1. Saving more money -

Following a year of economic hardship and uncertainty, saving money emerges as the top New Year's resolution for Americans in 2025, with 26% of the population prioritizing financial security.

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Generational insights -

Younger adults (under 30) are focused on saving money and physical fitness, while those aged 30-44 prioritize saving and mental health. For those aged 45-64, physical health and a healthier diet take center stage. Although older adults (65+) are less likely to make resolutions, those who do prioritize physical health and exercise.

Sources: (YouGov) (Healthline) (Statista) (Business Insider) (Gallup)

See also: A step-by-step guide to financial stability

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