As the new year approaches, many reflect on past resolutions, often with a sense of failure. A common pledge, like losing weight, is statistically unlikely to be kept, with 91% of such resolutions failing by February. The article suggests that the spirit of making resolutions, rather than their fulfillment, holds value, referencing G.K. Chesterton's view that the aim is a 'new soul' for a new year, not just a new year itself.