Does the annual hype of resolutions, the “word of the year,” and “Dry January” strike a nerve? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, most resolutions fizzle by the second Friday in January, known as “Quitter’s Day.”

But here’s the good news: You don’t need a date on the calendar to start again.

As an executive coach, I love goal-setting and self-improvement. But this year was different: 2025 was intense and exciting for MOAA with the launch of the TotalForce+ conference. I had the honor of leading content and programming for the event, a professional highlight that stretched me far beyond my comfort zone. It was exhilarating … and exhausting.

I expected the holidays to bring a natural reset. They didn’t. My cozy fireside goal-setting sessions failed more than once. But after some discernment and realignment, things finally fell into place — not on Jan. 1, but at the right time.

How about you? Is there something you need to address or realign to regain your sense of peace and purpose?

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Here’s the truth: New Year’s Day isn’t magic. If you weren’t ready to set goals in late December, start now. Don’t let one day define your year.

If you began strong, how’s it going? Did Quitter’s Day derail you? Remember: Progress beats perfection. Start again. Or start fresh.

And if you need some help getting going, join me Feb. 5 for The Next 90: Reflect. Reset. Relaunch. This quarterly workshop is designed to help you pause, take stock of where you are, and create a clear, actionable plan for the next 90 days. It’s about building momentum, staying accountable, and defining success on your own terms.

So, forget perfect. Keep going. Or start now. Progress beats resolutions every time. You’ve got this. And while you’re at it, shift your focus to your blessings — the little ones and the big ones. Gratitude can reframe your perspective and fuel your next step forward.

By the way, my word for 2026 is “resolve” — chosen after a thoughtful process (with a little help from AI as a coaching tool). Curious about how artificial intelligence can support your career journey? Premium and Life members can check out MOAA’s recent webinar (login required) on using AI in career transition, a continuation of our AI-related discussions during TotalForce+.