New Year's Effect: Why We Seek Life Changes Now, Experts Explain
Translated & summarized from Channel 13 by baba
Behavioral researcher Dr. Liraz Margalit explained the "fresh start effect," a psychological phenomenon where calendar milestones like New Year's Day boost optimism and motivation for life changes. She advises adopting a "new identity" rather than focusing on past actions to ensure lasting habit changes.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- Calendar milestones trigger a "fresh start effect," increasing motivation for change.
- This effect leads to more lifestyle changes and gym sign-ups.
- Lasting change requires adopting a "new identity," not just stopping old habits.
- Focusing on desired outcomes as part of current identity strengthens motivation.
The common desire for significant life changes, particularly around the start of a new year, is a scientifically-backed psychological phenomenon known as the 'fresh start effect,' according to behavioral researcher Dr. Liraz Margalit. Speaking on the program 'Haolam Boker,' Dr. Margalit cited research by Dr. Katy Milkman, which demonstrates how calendar milestones, from New Year's Day to birthdays and Sundays, trigger a wave of optimism. This optimism translates into increased motivation for lifestyle changes and a surge in gym memberships.
"At the beginning of the year, it's easier for us to stick to habits," Dr. Margalit explained. To ensure these resolutions last and aren't abandoned quickly, she highlighted the psychological key to change: creating a "new identity." For example, instead of saying "I stopped smoking," which implies a past action, saying "I don't smoke" frames the change as an integral part of one's current identity, making it more resilient to external pressures.
Dr. Margalit elaborated that most resolutions fail because individuals focus solely on an external goal or the process itself, rather than altering their personal identity perception. To achieve persistence and successfully adopt new habits, she suggests redefining self-perception and viewing the desired outcome as an inseparable part of who we are today. This approach strengthens internal motivation and allows the change to be sustained over time.