Chapter 1: The Comeback

“I’m back, everyone!” These words echo in my mind as I prepare to write this.

It’s been a considerable time away—specifically, 16 months. I understand if you want to reprimand me, but I'm here now, ready to engage in writing with more regularity.

You might be exclaiming, “2024 is going to be amazing!” like a young enthusiast in a high-energy environment. Yet, deep down, we all recognize the routine that follows.

Most likely, you’ll grab a brand-new notebook from Walmart—a nice one, perhaps with leather binding or an eye-catching design reminiscent of Lisa Frank’s vibrant creations.

In this notebook, you’ll jot down your ambitions for the year ahead: resolutions, tasks, plans, strategies, aspirations, and perhaps even a few rivalries to conquer on your quest for greatness!

Your first entry will probably read “1-1-2024,” accompanied by a rather mundane paragraph about feeling “hungover.” You might even mention your meal of “just a plain Greek yogurt and a celery stick.” And let’s not forget about that optimistic note: “Well—I managed to go 15.33 hours without a cigarette…”

As the days progress to “1-2-2024,” you’ll dutifully continue for a week or so.

Eventually, however, you’ll skip a day. “I’ll get back on track tomorrow,” you convince yourself while enjoying your homemade, organic, sugar-free cold brew—trying to save a couple of bucks on your way to work.

But then, another day passes without a word written. Weeks slip by, and that light guilt you felt begins to grow. Before you know it, what should have been simple resolutions have faded into mere memories—lost to time.

This pattern isn’t unique to resolutions. Consider the gym:

You might be “that person” who commits for two weeks, then shifts to an every-other-day routine, eventually attending only sporadically, all while continuing to pay for that membership you’re reluctant to cancel.

When it comes to dieting, you might manage a week or two of healthy eating. “Wow, you’re really doing great!” a well-meaning coworker might say, fueling your motivation. But when a box of donuts appears in the breakroom, your willpower may crumble, leading you back to your old habits.

As for quitting bad habits?

You could be fortunate to last a week, especially with more challenging issues like substance use. If you make it past the initial rough 48 hours, you deserve recognition. But reaching week two? Any little celebration or moment of sadness may become your excuse to revert to old behaviors.

This cynicism is justified.

After all, how many years have you actually followed through on your resolutions? A full year? If you’re like me and the rest of humanity, chances are you’ve never fully stuck to a commitment.

But here’s the thing: I want you to try regardless.

I want you to strive for self-improvement. I want you to make an effort, and yes, even to stumble along the way.

However, when you do fall short this time, seek out the lessons buried within. Hunt for that insight like a quirky relative searching for Bigfoot in the woods.

Every setback carries a lesson, much like how every mess attracts flies. But unlike the mess, it’s essential to dig into that failure.

So, here we are: 2024 is just around the corner.

You have your list of resolutions and the determination to face the challenges ahead. Approach this year with the understanding that failure may come, but you will persevere anyway.

What’s your most ambitious resolution for 2024? Share it in the comments below.

Don’t forget to clap, subscribe, and if you’re feeling generous, sign up for the email notifications.

See you in 2024!

-Lucas

Chapter 2: Embracing the Journey

The first video titled "Monster | Harris-Walz 2024" explores themes of resilience and transformation, echoing the sentiments of setting ambitious goals for the new year.

Chapter 3: Highlights of the Season

The second video titled "San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams Game Highlights | NFL 2024 Season Week 3" offers an exhilarating recap that inspires motivation and teamwork, paralleling the spirit of New Year's resolutions.