Residents of the Big Country reflect on New Year's resolutions

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ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) –
It is only the second day of 2026, but many people may already be rethinking their New Year’s resolutions.
According to a Pew Research study, nearly 80 percent of New Year’s goals are abandoned by February. With that in mind, KTAB went out into the Big Country to find out whether people made resolutions this year and if they are still sticking to them.

Some residents said they skipped resolutions altogether, believing they are bound to fail.
Others admitted their goals did not last long. One person said they wanted to become more of a morning person, but did not wake up until 10 a.m., laughing that they had already failed just days into the new year.

For others, resolutions were more meaningful. One resident said their goal was to grow stronger in their faith and not pass up opportunities in life, though they acknowledged struggling to keep past resolutions.

Family was also a common theme. A 91-year-old resident said their resolution was simply to enjoy the year with loved ones, adding that making New Year’s goals has always been a tradition for them.

While some Big Country residents are already off track and others choose not to make resolutions at all, a few remain hopeful as 2026 gets underway.

The Psychology Behind New Year’s Resolutions

New Year’s resolutions often reflect a desire for change, growth, or self-improvement. However, the challenge lies in maintaining consistency. Experts suggest that setting realistic, achievable goals can increase the likelihood of success. Many people set overly ambitious targets, which can lead to frustration and eventual abandonment.

The concept of a "fresh start" is powerful. It allows individuals to reset their habits and focus on what truly matters. Yet, the pressure to achieve these goals can sometimes backfire. Some people may feel overwhelmed or discouraged when they don’t see immediate results.

Common Themes in Resolutions

Despite the challenges, many people still choose to make New Year’s resolutions. The most common themes include health and fitness, personal development, financial planning, and relationships. For example, some individuals aim to exercise more, eat healthier, or save money. Others may want to spend more time with family or pursue a new hobby.

In Abilene, the local community reflects these trends. While some residents are already struggling to stick to their goals, others are determined to make 2026 a year of progress.

The Role of Tradition and Community

Tradition plays a significant role in how people approach New Year’s resolutions. For some, it’s a way to connect with family and friends. A 91-year-old resident shared that making New Year’s goals has always been a part of their life. Their resolution for 2026 is to enjoy the year with loved ones, emphasizing the importance of relationships over personal achievements.

This sentiment is echoed by others who believe that the true value of resolutions lies in the intention behind them, rather than the outcome. Whether or not a goal is achieved, the act of setting it can be a meaningful step toward self-reflection and growth.

Strategies for Success

Experts recommend several strategies to help maintain New Year’s resolutions. These include breaking goals into smaller, manageable steps, tracking progress, and seeking support from friends or family. Additionally, being flexible and adjusting goals as needed can prevent burnout.

Another key factor is mindset. Instead of viewing resolutions as rigid rules, many people find it helpful to treat them as guidelines. This approach allows for adjustments without feeling like a failure.

Final Thoughts

As 2026 continues, it’s clear that New Year’s resolutions will remain a topic of discussion. While many may have already fallen off track, others are still committed to their goals. Whether or not these resolutions are achieved, the process itself can be valuable.

For those who are struggling, it’s important to remember that setbacks are a natural part of any journey. The key is to stay motivated, learn from mistakes, and keep moving forward.