A New Year resolution is a commitment that an individual makes to a project or a habit, often a lifestyle change that is generally interpreted as advantageous. The name comes from the fact that these commitments normally go into effect on New Year's Day and remain until the set goal has been achieved.
Many New Year resolutions in the Western world involve maintaining peak vitality, fitness, or appearance. For example, one person's goal might be to reduce or to eliminate intake of alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs. A student may make a resolution to stay focused in class or to complete all of his assignments. Resolutions to eat sensibly, increase exercise, and maintain a healthy pattern of personal hygiene are also quite common.
More socio-centric examples include resolutions to donate to the poor more often, to become more assertive, or to become more economically or environmentally responsible. People may act similarly during the Christian fasting period of Lent, though the motive behind that holiday is more of sacrifice than of responsibility.