Why We Fail at Resolutions (and How to Keep Them)

Gabrielle Gresge
Jan 07, 2018

For many of us, 2017 was a doozy, but we here at Brit + Co are ready to hit refresh in 2018! Follow our Hit Refresh series through January for new ideas, hacks, and skills that will help you achieve (and maintain!) those New Year’s resolutions.

You kept your holiday spending in check, maintained your workout schedule, and made those DIY holiday cards you’d been dreaming about for months. You’re in great shape to keep those healthy habits in 2018 — and you’re probably thinking about adding some resolutions along the way. A new year is a great time to continue your good habits and kick out some bad ones, and with the right strategy, you’ll be in great shape to keep the resolution momentum going long past January. Keren Eldad, a life coach and founder of the With Enthusiasm programs, has some insight into why we fail at New Year’s resolutions and, most importantly, some insight on how to keep them.

According to Eldad, we fail at keeping these healthy habits for three reasons:

1. Fear: Fear stops us from doing a lot of things, from applying for that dream job to asking out the cutie at the bar. We most often choose not to do something simply because we feel like we might fail. Eldad says that some of us even fear that our goals are too big, or that they might never come to fruition.

2. Buzzkills: “These are the people around us telling us it can’t be done,” Eldad explains. Sometimes, the haters aren’t motivators, especially if they’re people who are really close to you.

3. Habits: “Replacing your crappy habits with better ones isn’t easy, but it can be done,” Eldad says. The appeal of new habits is really exciting, but getting them to stick often entails the hard work of breaking old ones.

When we start to understand and acknowledge the things that might hold us back, we can think about ways to defeat fear, buzzkills, and bad habits. Eldad has three tips for doing just that.

1. Make no more than three resolutions. Simplicity is key here: “Remove the fluff and hone in on what truly matters,” Eldad says. For example, if your general goal is to get fit in 2018, choose three specific, realistic, measurable ways to accomplish that larger goal, like going to the gym three days a week, or signing up for a 5K.

2. Replace negative thoughts and habits with good ones. We’ve established that breaking habits is neither fun nor easy, but Eldad recommends focusing on the new habits rather than the old. If you’ve decided to quit smoking, reward yourself with a new habit that you enjoy, such as yoga or gardening.

3. Get a coach. If you’re feeling especially driven to stick to your resolutions, consider getting a life coach. This is a great option for people in need of accountability, according to Eldad. “Coaching changes the game,” she claims. “It wakes you up, supports you, gives you the tools, and gives you accountability.”

How do you keep your resolutions? Let us know @BritandCo!

(Photo via Getty)

8 Lucky Foods to Eat During the Lunar New Year

While in America we may toast to the new year with Champagne and eat black-eyed peas for good luck, those who celebrate the Lunar New Year have a host of food traditions that symbolize wealth, health, and family unity. At a Lunar New Year celebration dinner at Hakkasan in San Francisco hosted by Tiger Beer, we learned about the eight items that have been served each year on the Lunar Near Year for centuries. Why eight? In Chinese, the number eight (huat), translates to “get wealthy.”

Scroll to see the 8 lucky Lunar New Year foods you should eat this year!

China Sichuan Food

1. Dumplings

Steamed dumplings are shaped like the ancient Chinese gold currency, called ingot, and represent wealth. According to legend, the number of dumplings you eat during the new year corresponds to the amount of money you’ll make that year. That’s reason enough to eat an extra dumpling (or five). (via China Sichuan Food)

The Woks of Life

2. Whole Steamed Fish

Yu means both fish and prosperity in Chinese. Dining on a whole fish during the Lunar New Year embodies family unity. (via The Woks of Life)

Woks of Life

3. Longevity Noodles

Here’s your reason to slurp noodles and not break them — the longer the noodles, the longer the life of the person who consumes them, legend has it. If you can, splurge on Longevity Noodles, a large portion of noodles that contains just one long strand that is not cut, which is why it tends to be on the pricier side. (via Woks of Life)

The Hong Kong Cookery

4. Rice

The stickiness of steamed jasmine rice is another symbol of a family “sticking” together. Some families celebrate with an “Eight Treasures Rice Pudding,” a stunning rice dessert that stars glutinous rice and eight toppings: candied lotus, green raisins, pine nuts, black raisins, dried dates, dried wolfberries, dried apricots, and red maraschino cherries (for luck!). (viaThe Hong Kong Cookery)

Dumpling Sisters

5. Garlic

The word for garlic in Chinese is suan, which translates to “counting.” Tradition has it that those who celebrate the Lunar New Year eat lots of garlic to count all of the money they will make in the new year. It’s found in almost every dish, including stir-fried prawns. (via Dumpling Sisters)

The Woks of Life

6. Red Foods

Red is the prominent color used in the Lunar New Year and is found in the decor, food, and most notably, the red envelopes filled with money gifted to loved ones during this time. The color red is associated with good luck, fortune, and joy. A table during the Lunar New Year will be filled with red foods like crab, peking duck, shrimp, barbecue pork, and more. (via The Woks of Life)

Chinese Healthy Cooking

7. Glutinous Rice Balls

Dinner ends with sweet, round glutinous rice balls filled with red bean paste. The round shape supposedly indicates a smooth year ahead, family reunion, and good luck! (via Chinese Healthy Cooking)

garysoup/Flicker

8. Mandarin Oranges

The official fruit of the new year, mandarin oranges, ju in Chinese, sounds like the word for lucky, ji. They are abundantly gifted throughout the New Year celebration.

If you want to learn more about the foods eaten around the world, and about the Lunar New Year, check out Brit + Co’s recipes on Pinterest.

This post has been updated.

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Costco Just Stocked This Starbucks Fave — For Only $2 A Bottle!

Costco just restocked a very famous Starbucks drink, so if you’re a big fan of their Refreshers, you’re going to want to make a beeline to your nearest store ASAP.

Scroll on for all the details about shopping the Starbucks Pink Drink at Costco!

Costco

That’s right – Costco just added the bottled version of Starbucks’ Pink Drink to their shelves! This ready-to-drink version has the same “fruity and refreshing” effect you’d expect from the cafe favorite, as it’s made with the chain’s Strawberry Acai Refresher base and accented with coconut milk.

Costco

Each 8-ounce bottle is dairy-free, vegan, and has only 90 calories. The pack Costco is selling comes complete with 12 bottles, so you can easily stock your fridge with a fun little sip.

Starbucks

Costco fan account @costcobuys shared the newly-restocked Pink Drink with their Instagram followers and highlighted that their Costco location had the item listed for $16.99.

However, Costco’s website lists the 12-pack for $19.99, so the exact price may vary based on where you live.

Starbucks

Regardless, that puts each bottle of the Starbucks drink at around $2 each, which is significantly less money than what you’d spend for a freshly-made bev at a Starbucks location.

The Starbucks Pink Drink typically goes for around $5, plus tax. If you want to save on your Starbies habit, this new Costco find is a must!

Costco

Costco also carries many more Starbucks items in bulk like instant coffee, whole coffee beans, Nespresso pods, and even hot cocoa mix.

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The 16 Best 2025 Planners & Calendars From Amazon To Help You Conquer The New Year

Sometimes, one tool is all it takes to become the best version of yourself. Keeping track of a planner or calendar can make organizing your life a total breeze, whether you’re focused on managing work, wellness, or wealth – or all of the above! These 2025 planners and calendars help turn chaos into calm so you can feel totally on top of your game in order to crush your New Year’s goals.

Scroll on to find your dream 2025 planner or calendar so you can stay on track all year long!

2025 Planners

Amazon

1. Paperage 2025 Weekly & Monthly Hardcover Planner

A planner that has both weekly and monthly formats can be super helpful if you've simply got a lot going on. That way, you've got a look at the nitty gritty and the big picture.

Amazon

Having both date formats at your disposal also makes looking back at the year super fun, offering a visual timeline of all the things you achieved in 2025.

Amazon

2. Kate Spade New York Daily Planner August 2024-December 2025

This wire-bound planner looks downright adorable, plus it comes with several fun sticker sheets to help you keep planning playful.

Amazon

This one is also great if you like to bring your planner on the go – its hard cover easily stands up to daily use!

Amazon

3. Taja 2025 Weekly & Monthly Planner

This unique 2025 planner kicks off each month with an inspiring quote to further motivate you towards your goals. Whether you're a student, parent, teacher, or working professional, you'll definitely enjoy the ample planning space this pick has to offer.

Amazon

4. Waav 2025 Weekly & Monthly Planner

The calm, minimalist look of this weekly and monthly planner helps clear out any mental clutter you may have before starting your workweek or tackling weekend errands.

Amazon

5. Orange Circle Studio 2025 Planner

This shroomy spiral planner would be perfect for organizing any outdoorsy plans in 2025.

Amazon

In addition to weekly and monthly calendars throughout, it comes with a goal planner, a budget tracker, and a blank notes section for any miscellaneous points you don't wanna miss.

Amazon

6. Day Designer 2025 Daily Planner

This high-quality planner is totally worth the splurge, especially if you're super loyal to your planner and use it every day. In it, you'll find tabbed monthly planners alongside weekly and daily spreads that include blank writing spaces for notes, gratitude, and your top three priorities for the day. Score!

Amazon

7. Happy Planner Disc-Bound 12-Month Planner

The cheerful and colorful print on this planner is perfect for setting a productive mood!

Amazon

8. Graphique 18-Month July 2024-December 2025 Hardbound Spiral Planner

The graphic on the front of this 2025 planner says it all: "I'm at capacity." Luckily, its pages are equipped with plenty of spaces and guides to help you handle all of life's chaos with ease.

Amazon

9. Anecdote 2025 Daily Workflow Planner

The page layouts in this planner are so sleek and sophisticated. You'll be able to see every plan and point very clearly, so you never miss a beat amidst all the busy-ness.

Amazon

Its hard cover is bound by an elastic band so you don't risk pages ripping or folding.

2025 Calendars

Amazon

1. Karto Vertical 2025 Wall Calendar

This wall cal with earth tones will match any workspace.

Amazon

The bottom section allows you to list any notes and top priorities you may have for the respective month!

Amazon

2. Zicoto 2025 Aesthetic Desk Calendar

If you're more of a desk calendar type of person, this aesthetically-pleasing one comes propped up so you always have a clear view of what's on the docket.

Amazon

3. Ban.do 'Let Me Write That Down' 2025 Wall Calendar

Planners and calendars shouldn't be boring – spice up your walls with this super colorful pick! The vertical orientation feels more updated and playful than a horizontal one, so you could easily hang it up anywhere.

Amazon

4. Graphique 2025 Flower Pop Wall Calendar

This floral-themed cal keeps your space lookin' fresh with a nice pop of color.

Amazon

5. Poketo Undated Monthly Vertical Wall Calendar

This month-by-month wall calendar comes without numbered days, so you can start it whenever you please, no matter the year. The neutral color palette keeps your planning sessions nice and calm.

Amazon

6. Taja Abstract Art 2025 Wall Calendar

This wall calendar works just as well as wall art as it does a planning tool. Each month reveals a new lively print to help you stay motivated.

Amazon

7. Vintage Fruits 2025 Wall Calendar

This has got to be one of the cutest 2025 planners out there. It's filled with 12 different vintage-esque illustrations of fruits that'll make your space feel cozy as ever.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more editor-loved products all year long!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Gisele Bündchen Had A Baby Boy — & We Finally Have A Hint About His Name!

Gisele Bündchen is officially a mom of three! The supermodel gave birth to the newest member of her family (and her first baby with BF Joaquim Valente) "recently," according to TMZ, who first reported the birth. I love any and all baby news, so I couldn't help myself from digging for details when I first saw the report!

Here's everything we know about Gisele Bündchen's new baby with Joaquim Valente, her first since split from Tom Brady.

Joaquim Valente and Gisele Bündchen's baby is here!

Gisele Bündchen shares two kids with ex-husband Tom Brady, a 15-year-old son named Benjamin Rein and 12-year-old daughter Vivian Lake. According to TMZ, while we haven't gotten an official birthday yet, the baby was born recently, and "mom and the baby are healthy." That's the best news yet!

Gisele and Joaquim were also waiting until giving birth to find out the baby's gender, and a source tells People the couple welcomed a baby boy. Stay tuned from an official announcement from the couple — if they choose to share, of course. The source also reveals the baby's middle name is River, which continues the tradition of Gisele choosing water-related middle names for her kids!

"Gisele and Joaquim are happy for this new chapter in their life and they're looking forward to creating a peaceful and loving environment for the whole family," a source told People in the fall of 2024.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gisele Bündchen (@gisele)

Just a week ago, Gisele was active on Instagram, posting a video compilation that's set to Nate Broskii's "Memories Don't Fade Away" and features multiple clips, including a gorgeous beach sunset. "Happiness is an inside job," she says in the caption. "Remember, you are the only one who has the power to create the life you want to live."

We can't wait to see how Gisele's next chapter unfolds! Because if there's anyone who can inspire us to create our dream life, it's her.

Congratulations to Gisele Bündchen and Joaquim Valente on their new baby! Check out the latest news on Lily Collins and Charlie McDowell's new baby while you're at it.

This post has been updated.

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41 Amazon Picks to Help You Crush Your New Year's Resolutions

As the New Year begins to settle, it's officially time to turn your New Year's resolutions into your reality. Whether you've decided that 2025 is the year you live a healthier lifestyle, budget your morning, or boost your productivity, we've rounded up 41 Amazon gems that will help you stick to your goals. From at-home fitness finds to chic planners and budget guides, this list of Amazon must-haves will set you up for success. Make 2025 your year with these products that your future self will thank you for.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

These Adjustable Dumbells Come in a Set of 2

Amazon

The easiest way to prep your home gym is with these adjustable dumbells. They serve as a space-saving gem that allows you to effortlessly switch between five different weights, all with a simple twist.

See it on Amazon

This Label Maker With a Compatible App

Amazon

Follow through on your plan to stay organized in 2025 with this label maker. This gadget seamlessly connects to your smart device via Bluetooth, allowing you to customize and level anything from pantry items to office files.

See it on Amazon

This Cordless Jump Rope Tracks Your Progress

Amazon

Get your cardio on with this cordless jump rope that tracks your jumps, calories burned, and workout time. This gadget keeps you accountable, making it the perfect option for a last-minute sweat.

See it on Amazon

This Budget Binder Organizes Your Expenses

Amazon

Build responsible financial habits with this budget binder that is perfect for tracking spending and setting saving goals. This stylish binder includes cash envelopes and other accessories that make it easy to organize and manage your money.

See it on Amazon

This Yoga Mat With an Inch of Cushioning

Amazon

Improve your balance and your mindset in the new year with this yoga mat that has an extra thick design. The non-slip, moisture-resistant material is perfect for anyone with sweaty palms, ensuring you stay in place throughout your workout.

See it on Amazon

This Fitness Ring With a Long-Lasting Battery

Amazon

Prioritize your health in 2025 with this fitness ring that can track your sleep, fitness, and health. This lightweight ring can monitor your heart rate, movement, temperature, and more, providing you with insight into your health each day.

See it on Amazon

This Hat Organizer Saves a Ton of Space

Amazon

If you're officially ready to clean up your closet, this hat organizer is for you. It can hold up to 25 hats and offers a neat and classy way to store your baseball caps, belts, ties, and more.

See it on Amazon

This Planner for the Entire Year

Amazon

A New Year calls for a fresh start. This planner is the perfect place to begin, designed to help you map out your entire year. With monthly and weekly spreads, you have plenty of space to track and monitor your plans and goals.

See it on Amazon

These Storage Bins Are Stackable

Amazon

Declutter your space with these storage bins that TikTokers swear by. They have four tiers and a stackable design, leaving you plenty of room to hold supplies, shoes, or other accessories.

See it on Amazon

This Alarm Clock With 13 Soothing Sounds

Amazon

Become an early riser in the new year, thanks to this alarm clock that gradually simulates a sunrise, offering a soft, natural light each morning. It also includes 13 nature sounds, creating a relaxing experience that you will love.

See it on Amazon

This Storage Rack With a Ton of Compartments

Amazon

Create a dedicated workout space in your home with this storage rack that can neatly organize your yoga mats, foam rollers, dumbells, and more. It has multiple storage compartments that will organize all of your belongings.

See it on Amazon

This Thigh Master With Comfort Grips

Amazon

The best part about this thigh master is that it can be used anywhere, at any time. It serves as a small but strong workout accessory that can be used to target your legs, arms, core, or glutes.

See it on Amazon

These Glass Containers With Air-Tight Lids

Amazon

Stay on track with your meal prep when you have these glass containers that are a game-changer in the kitchen. They are a must-have for portion control and have a microwave-safe and oven-safe design.

See it on Amazon

This Challenge Box With a Smash-to-Open Design

Amazon

This challenge box is the perfect accessory for anyone looking to save money this year. This cash vault has a smash-to-open design, meaning you can't access the money you saved until you've hit your goal.

See it on Amazon

This Mini Stair Stepper With Built-in Resistance Bands

Amazon

There's no need to go to the gym when you have this mini stair stepper in the comfort of your home. This accessory is made with hydraulic resistance technology, providing a smooth and reliable workout for all fitness levels.

See it on Amazon

This Workout Planner Tracks Your Progress

Amazon

This workout planner is perfect for anyone who likes to stay accountable. Designed with daily workout tracking, progress charts, and goal-setting pages, this planner offers everything you need to track your workouts and monitor your growth.

See it on Amazon

This Back Stretcher With Adjustable Levels

Amazon

If your goal is to improve your posture, this back stretcher is for you. Not only does it decompress the spine, but it's also known to promote a better posture and relieve lower back pain.

See it on Amazon

This Water Bottle Reminds You to Drink More

Amazon

Drinking enough water is the easiest way to improve your health. This water bottle makes it easy to stay on track throughout the day, providing you with motivational time markers to remind you when it's time for your next sip.

See it on Amazon

This Pill Organizer Shaped Like a Heart

Amazon

Stay consistent with your supplements and medications with this pill organizer that simplifies the process. Designed with cute pastel shades, this organizer is a functional and chic accessory that has plenty of room for all of your pills.

See it on Amazon

These Food Containers With Reusable Labels

Amazon

Create the pantry of your dreams with these food containers that include 24 reusable labels and airtight locking lids. These containers come in multiple sizes, making them perfect for anything from dry ingredients to your favorite snacks.

See it on Amazon

This Memory Puzzle Book for the Problem-Solver

Amazon

Keep your brain sharp through the new year with this memory puzzle book filled with over 175 brain-boosting activities. This book is designed for adults looking to challenge their memory and boost their mental agility and is accessible for all vision levels.

See it on Amazon

These Spending Tracker Sheets Come in a Pack of 60

Amazon

Take control of your finances in 2025 with these spending tracker sheets that come in a set of 60. The minimalist design makes it easy to categorize whether you're paying off debt or just trying to cut back on unnecessary purchases.

See it on Amazon

This Duffel Bag With Hidden Compartments

Amazon

Prepare for the gym with this duffel bag that has a hidden shoe compartment and other storage spaces. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry, perfect for a trip to the gym or a weekend getaway.

See it on Amazon

This Electric Lunch Box With an Insulated Carrying Bag

Amazon

Cut back on fast food and enjoy your favorite homemade meals at work with this electric lunch box. The adjustable temperature setting allows you to heat your food throughout the day while the complimentary fork and spoon keep you prepared.

See it on Amazon

This Gardening Tool Set for a New Hobby

Amazon

If gardening is on your 2025 bucket list, this garden tool set is a must-have Amazon gem. It includes eight pieces for both beginners and experienced gardeners.

See it on Amazon

This Toner Hydrates the Skin

Amazon

Prioritize your skincare in the new year, starting with this toner that has a luxurious formula and a refillable design. Infused with nourishing ingredients like ceramides and amino acids, this skincare gem leaves your skin plump and radiant with each use.

See it on Amazon

This Journal Promotes Mindfulness

Amazon

Practice daily gratitude with this journal that helps you set goals, embrace gratitude, and create positive daily habits. With a variety of different sections, this journal helps you focus on goal tracking, affirmations, and reflecting.

See it on Amazon

This Sunscreen With a Tinted Formula

Amazon

Practice protecting your skin with this sunscreen that doubles as a tinted moisturizer. This skincare product offers a natural glow, perfect for daily wear. Plus, it has a non-greasy formula that stays in place all day.

See it on Amazon

This Jumpsuit With a Breathable Fabric

Amazon

Feel good and look good at the gym with this jumpsuit that comes in a ton of fun colors to choose from. With a tummy-control design and sculpting fit, this one-piece outfit moves with you through yoga, errands, and all of your other plans in the new year.

See it on Amazon

This Microwave Steamer With an Adjustable Design

Amazon

Eat more veggies in 2025, thanks to this microwave steamer that is designed to steam vegetables, fish, and even grains. The adjustable steam release vent allows you to control the moisture levels, offering perfectly cooked meals with each use.

See it on Amazon

This Amazon Kindle Holds Thousands of Books

Amazon

Pick up reading in the new year with this Amazon Kindle that offers a 7-inch glare-free display. This reading accessory allows you to store thousands of books in one place, making it perfect for following your favorite stories on the go.

See it on Amazon

This Fitness Plate Improves Balance

Amazon

Enjoy an at-home workout with this fitness plate that uses high-frequency vibrations to activate your muscles. The adjustable intensity settings let you customize workouts, perfect for beginners and advanced users alike.

See it on Amazon

These Running Shoes With Intense Cushioning

Amazon

Boost your cardio with these running shoes that are a must-have for your fitness journey. Designed with ultra-cushioned midsoles and cloud-like support, these shoes will enhance your performance in no time.

See it on Amazon

This Password Book With a Compact Design

Amazon

Never forget a password again, thanks to this password book that includes alphabetical tabs. The hardcover design adds a chic touch, while the compact size ensures it can fit in any drawer or bag.

See it on Amazon

This Vegetable Chopper Saves Time

Amazon

Healthy habits start with this vegetable chopper that can effortlessly chop up onions, peppers, carrots, and more. It seamlessly catches chopped ingredients and simplifies meal prep.

See it on Amazon

These Under-the-Sink Organizers With a Pull-Out Design

Amazon

Organize your kitchen in one simple step with these under-the-sink organizers that come in a pack of two. Each organizer has a double-tier design, leaving plenty of room for supplies, toiletries, and more.

See it on Amazon

This Wall Calendar Covers 18 Months

Amazon

This wall calendar is the perfect accessory for staying organized in the new year. This accessory offers eight months of planning, covering everything from appointments to vacations.

See it on Amazon

This Thinking Jar Keeps You Motivated

Amazon

Practice positivity with this thinking jar, which contains motivational notes and affirmations designed to boost your mood daily. These encouraging notes are perfect for stressful, unmotivated days when you just need an extra push.

See it on Amazon

This Air Fryer Includes a Cookbook

Amazon

Enjoy more at-home meals this year with this air fryer that is the perfect cooking companion for beginners. This cooking gadget includes quick, easy, and delicious recipes, making it easier than ever to create flavorful meals with less oil.

See it on Amazon

These Positive Cards Complete With a Wooden Display

Amazon

Stay grateful and motivated in 2025 with these positive cards that come in a pack of 52. Each card seamlessly fits in the wooden display stand, allowing you to show off a new motivating card each day.

See it on Amazon

This Portable Treadmill With an LED Display

Amazon

Get your steps in this year thanks to this portable treadmill with a foldable design and a compact size. It's made with comfortable handles and an LED display, allowing you to customize your experience each day.

See it on Amazon