As the new year approaches, many adults are making resolutions to improve their health, particularly by focusing on eating better and exercising more. However, despite good intentions, a large number of people admit they struggle to stick to these goals, with work, parenting, and a lack of motivation often cited as key barriers. According to a study commissioned by Medicspot, 36% of respondents plan to kickstart a new eating and exercise regime in 2025, yet over a third of them expect to abandon these efforts within just four weeks.
The reasons behind these failed resolutions are all too familiar. “Our lives are so busy that it can be hard to find the time to fit everything in, with diets and exercise often falling by the wayside,” said a spokesperson for Medicspot. Many people face the daily challenge of balancing work, family, and personal time, leading to health goals being pushed aside. The key, they suggest, is to focus on small, manageable changes, rather than overwhelming yourself with drastic lifestyle overhauls.
Despite the difficulties, 62% of people admitted that losing weight is a recurring resolution they make each year. For many, this includes trying new meal plans or sticking to specific diets. In 2025, 26% plan to create their own meal plans, while 16% are opting for low-fat diets. However, over half of the respondents confessed that they generally don’t enjoy following a strict dietary regime, and maintaining motivation throughout their weight loss journey remains one of the biggest struggles.
A deeper look into the data reveals that for many, the hardest part is sticking to healthy eating habits. A staggering 81% of respondents noted that they need some sort of incentive to successfully stick to a strict meal plan. Common obstacles include cravings for “naughty” foods (55%), the cost of healthier produce (34%), and the challenge of managing portion sizes.
The study also highlighted a concerning trend: nearly half of those who manage to reach their target weight admit they are likely to regain the weight they’ve lost. This could be due to the unsustainable nature of many popular diet plans, which often fail to become long-term habits.
Despite these challenges, the spokesperson for Medicspot emphasized the importance of consistency over perfection. “Maintaining a healthy diet can feel like a constant battle in today’s fast-paced world. With endless temptations and busy schedules, it’s no wonder so many people struggle to stick to their goals.” But they urge people to focus on progress, not perfection. The key to long-lasting change lies in finding small, sustainable adjustments that seamlessly fit into daily life.
For those looking to break the cycle of short-lived resolutions, the advice is clear: set realistic, achievable goals, stay consistent, and be patient. Progress might be slow at first, but the rewards of lasting, healthy habits far outweigh the challenges.