Every new year begins with a list of resolutions—promises we make to ourselves, vowing to improve, cut back, or shift priorities. Some of these resolutions are necessary and life-changing, but others? They are meant to be broken.

Take my own experience as an example. At the end of 2024, I made a firm commitment: In 2025, I would do fewer events. The logic was sound—I wanted to reclaim time for deep work, personal projects, and perhaps a little breathing room. I told myself that after years of a packed calendar, it was time to scale back.

Fast forward to February 2025, and I can already admit: I have failed spectacularly. Not only did I not reduce the number of events I’m involved in, but I’m actually doing more than ever. I find myself saying yes to opportunities that align with my passion, expanding my reach, and engaging in discussions that truly matter.

Why Do We Break Certain Resolutions?

1. Some Goals Sound Good in Theory, but Reality Has Other Plans

At the time, I believed that fewer events would equate to more focus. What I didn’t account for was that my nature—my passion for connecting, sharing knowledge, and building communities—would make this nearly impossible. When invitations and opportunities came knocking, I had to ask myself: Am I avoiding these for the sake of a resolution, or am I saying no to something that aligns with who I am?

2. Resolutions Should Evolve with Your Growth

The resolution to do fewer events was made at a time when I felt the need for change. But growth isn’t always about doing less; sometimes, it’s about doing more of the right things. In 2025, I’m not just doing more events—I’m choosing more meaningful ones, aligning with initiatives that have impact.

3. Passion Wins Over Restriction

Some resolutions require discipline—like exercising more or cutting down on distractions. But others, like limiting opportunities for engagement, can become artificial restrictions that go against your strengths. The key is recognizing when a resolution is serving you and when it’s holding you back.

The Lesson? Adjust, Don’t Abandon Growth

This experience has taught me that instead of setting arbitrary limits, I should focus on better curation. It’s not about fewer events—it’s about the right events. It’s about ensuring that each engagement adds value, aligns with my mission, and keeps me energized rather than drained.

So, if you find yourself breaking a resolution, ask yourself: Am I failing, or am I just evolving? Because some resolutions are meant to be broken, and sometimes, that’s exactly what needs to happen.