How to Set Meaningful Goals: Behavioral Science, Stoicism, and Alternatives to New Year’s Resolutions | Psychology in the Wild Are New Year’s resolutions a blessing or a burden? In this episode of Psychology in the Wild, we explore the science and psychology behind this annual ritual. Learn how to set goals that truly matter, overcome common pitfalls, and align your resolutions with your personal values and well-being. We unpack behavioral science insights, including the Fresh Start Effect, mental contrasting, and the role of intrinsic motivation. Discover how stoicism and mindfulness can transform your approach to the New Year, helping you stay grounded while striving for meaningful change. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why New Year’s resolutions often fail (and how to avoid the traps) The power of intrinsic motivation and aligning goals with your values Practical techniques for achieving goals, like mental contrasting How stoic philosophy and mindfulness can guide your journey Alternatives to traditional resolutions for a happier, healthier year 🕒 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Psychology in the Wild 00:24 New Year's Resolutions: A Love-Hate Relationship 02:02 The Fresh Start Effect and Behavioral Science 06:52 Alternatives to New Year's Resolutions 13:19 The Importance of Rest and Mindfulness 18:06 Mental Contrasting for Goal Achievement 24:57 The Importance of Motivation and Overcoming Obstacles 25:57 Defining Wellbeing for the New Year 30:16 The Role of Stoic Philosophy in Modern Life 32:14 Finding Meaning in the Present Moment 47:02 The Entrepreneurial Mindset and Intrinsic Motivation 51:19 Reflecting on Goals and Resolutions for 2025 🎯 Whether you're tired of the same old resolutions or looking for a fresh approach, this episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiration. Start the year on the right foot by focusing on daily well-being and being present in the moment. 👉 Subscribe for more episodes exploring how psychology shapes our everyday lives. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share your own strategies for goal-setting and personal growth!