“New Year, New You?” It’s a catchy phrase we hear every January, but let’s be honest—it’s not very realistic.
Maybe there’s a better way, one that focuses on progress rather than perfection.
I’ve never been one for New Year’s resolutions. They’ve always felt like grand gestures destined to fizzle out under the weight of their own expectations. However, the start of a new year is an ideal moment to reflect—to look back on what’s worked, look ahead to what’s possible, and set meaningful goals that keep life interesting and fulfilling.
For me, it’s all about progress. Over the years, I’ve warmed to the concept of ‘1% better,’ a philosophy rooted in small, consistent improvements that, over time, lead to significant results. It’s practical, achievable, and fits seamlessly into the rhythm of real life. Think about it: a 1% improvement each day or week could add up to 30% or more by the end of the year. It’s not just math—it’s a mindset.
A Year of Marginal Gains
Instead of making rigid resolutions, I’ll step into 2025 with a focus on progress. The idea of ‘marginal gains’—or getting just 1% better—aligns with my preference for steady, sustainable growth in both work and life. While it’s hard to measure exactly what a 1% improvement looks like, the principle of making small, regular changes that contribute to a bigger goal feels achievable.
At work, I often ask the team, “What can we do better?” No idea is too small. For example, last year, our reception team applied this idea to improve the patient journey. After receiving feedback about our bench seating, we added comfy chairs, seat pads, and even brought back magazines. These changes may seem minor, but having a magazine to distract you before a daunting appointment or a comfortable seat while you wait can make a small yet meaningful difference to the patient experience.
In 2025, we plan to focus on improving communication with our patients. We’re exploring ways to provide regular updates and behind-the-scenes insights into our activities. By sharing more about what we do, we hope to strengthen the sense of connection between our practice and our patients.
Looking for a Quick Fix?
Quick fixes rarely work. They often leave us chasing short-term wins instead of pursuing meaningful, lasting progress. We live in a world that primes us to expect instant gratification and immediate success. But the truth is, anything worth having requires effort—and more importantly, sustained effort over time. This is where many of us stumble.
Change demands patience, consistency, and kindness toward ourselves when things don’t go as planned. Building habits, staying consistent, and showing stubborn determination are the keys to real progress.
Your 1% in 2025
As 2025 begins, what’s the first 1% change you’ll make? It doesn’t have to be monumental. Start small, stay consistent, and you may be amazed by where you end up.
