The language people use when making New Year’s resolutions – or self-promises in general – is significantly shaped by how strongly they intend to follow through, the level of emphasis they place on the commitment, and the social support they receive. A recent study examined the connection between these factors and the specific words individuals choose when articulating their goals.
The Power of Language in Self-Commitment
Researchers found that people who were more confident in their ability to keep a resolution tended to use more concrete language. This included specific details about how they would achieve their goal. Conversely, those with less confidence often relied on more abstract phrasing.
Emphasis and Intention
The study revealed a clear link between the emphasis placed on a resolution and the language used. When individuals strongly emphasized their commitment, they were more likely to use first-person pronouns – “I will” – demonstrating a direct personal stake. This contrasts with less emphatic resolutions, where individuals might use more tentative language.
The Role of Social Support
Social support also plays a crucial role. The study indicated that when people perceived strong support from others, they were more likely to frame their resolutions in terms of shared goals or collective effort. This suggests that external encouragement can influence how individuals conceptualize and articulate their commitments.
What Could Happen Next
Based on these findings, it is likely that interventions designed to improve resolution success rates could focus on strengthening an individual’s intention and emphasizing the personal benefits of achieving the goal. A possible next step for researchers could be to explore whether deliberately using more concrete and first-person language can, in itself, increase commitment and follow-through.
Analysts expect that further research may also investigate how different types of social support – from family, friends, or online communities – affect the language used and the ultimate success of self-promises. It could also be beneficial to examine how these linguistic patterns vary across different cultures or types of resolutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does confidence affect the language used in resolutions?
People with more confidence in their ability to keep a resolution tend to use more concrete language, including specific details about how they will achieve their goal.
What role does emphasis play in self-commitment?
When individuals strongly emphasize their commitment, they are more likely to use first-person pronouns, such as “I will,” demonstrating a direct personal stake.
How does social support influence the way people frame their resolutions?
When people perceive strong support from others, they are more likely to frame their resolutions in terms of shared goals or collective effort.
How do you typically phrase your personal goals, and do you believe the language you use impacts your ability to achieve them?
