Most Popular New Year’s Resolutions 2025

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, I discover 2025’s most popular new year’s resolutions, what makes us want to achieve them, and share advice on how to accomplish these goals.

The stroke of midnight on January 1st brings with it a wave of optimism and the urge to reinvent ourselves. We vow to shed those extra pounds, finally learn that instrument gathering dust in the corner, or conquer that mountain of a to-do list. But what are the resolutions truly driving us in 2025? And more importantly, how can we actually stick to them this time?

In this post, I’ll dive deep into the most popular New Year’s resolutions making waves this year, explore the psychology behind our desire for change, and offer actionable advice to help you turn those resolutions into reality. To help me out, search experts from Didgeheads sent over their research into the search volume for popular New Year’s resolutions across cities in the UK with over 50,000 people which discovered the main priorities for the British starting 2025.

So, whether you’re aiming for peak fitness, financial freedom, or simply a more mindful approach to life, let’s unlock the secrets to achieving your 2025 goals.

The ongoing wellness trend that has hit the UK ever since the pandemic, combined with the high rates of overweight and obesity in adults across the nation, has likely had an impact on British priorities in 2025. Our study highlights their concern, showing that establishing a workout routine and better dietary habits rank higher than saving money, even amidst a cost-of-living crisis, with several bills set to increase this year. It is interesting to see their wellness goals are being combined with giving up smoking and reducing alcohol intake, two habits that will certainly contribute to better overall health.

-Jessica Redman, director at Didgeheads

Most Popular New Year’s Resolutions 2025

1. Exercising More – 26,710 Searches

Obesity rates in the UK remain alarmingly high. According to recent data, 64% of adults in England, 66% in Scotland, 62% in Wales, and 65% in Northern Ireland are classified as overweight or obese. These figures highlight a serious public health concern with significant implications for individual well-being and the overall health of the nation.

However, there’s reason for optimism as the new year begins. Search data reveals a surge in interest in “exercising more” among Brits, with over 26,710 searches related to this topic in the past 30 days. This indicates a strong desire to improve fitness levels and potentially contribute to a decline in obesity rates.

Most Searched Areas

• Regional Leaders: Residents of Wrexham, Dartford, and Bury are demonstrating the strongest commitment to fitness, with the highest search volumes per capita.
• Urban Focus: In major cities, Croydon, Manchester, and Bolton are seeing significant interest in establishing fitness routines.

Tips

• Start Small and Consistent: Begin with short, achievable goals, such as a 15-minute walk daily. Gradually increase the duration and intensity as you progress.
• Find Activities You Enjoy: Choose activities that you find fun and engaging, whether it’s dancing, swimming, team sports, or simply walking in nature. This will make it easier to stay motivated.
• Make it a Habit: Schedule exercise into your daily routine, just like any other important appointment.
• Find a Buddy: Exercise with a friend or join a fitness class to stay motivated and accountable.
• Utilize Resources: Take advantage of free resources like local parks, walking trails, and online fitness videos.

While increased interest in exercise is encouraging, sustained effort is crucial. By prioritizing physical activity, embracing healthy lifestyle choices, and supporting initiatives that promote healthy living, the UK can work towards a healthier future for all its citizens.

2. Eating Healthier – 23,970 Searches

While the average British diet isn’t inherently unhealthy, a strong desire for improved dietary habits emerges as the second most popular New Year’s resolution for 2025. With 23,970 searches related to “healthy eating” in the analyzed period, it’s clear that many Brits are seeking to nourish their bodies better.

Most Searched Areas

• Leading the Way: Residents of Dartford, Wellingborough, and Bury exhibit the strongest interest in healthy eating, with search volumes per capita reaching 158, 158, and 147 respectively. Interestingly, Dartford and Bury also top the list for “exercising more” searches, indicating a strong focus on overall well-being in these regions.
• Urban Appetite for Change: In major cities, Manchester takes the lead with 128 searches per 100,000 people, closely followed by Croydon (126) and Bolton (120), mirroring the trend observed in exercise-related searches.

Tips

• Start Small, Think Big: Begin with small, manageable changes, such as swapping sugary drinks for water, adding more fruits and vegetables to your meals, or reducing processed foods.
• Focus on Whole Foods: Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
• Cook More Often: Cooking at home allows you to control ingredients and portion sizes, promoting healthier eating habits.
• Plan Your Meals: Meal planning can help you make conscious food choices and avoid impulsive decisions.
• Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support overall health.
• Seek Professional Guidance: Consider consulting a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized advice and support.

By prioritizing healthy eating alongside increased physical activity, Brits can significantly improve their overall well-being and contribute to a healthier nation.

3. Travelling – 21,480 Searches

Who doesn’t dream of escaping the everyday and embarking on exciting adventures? While the planning and logistics can sometimes feel overwhelming, the allure of travel and the promise of new experiences remain a powerful motivator. This is evident in the fact that travel has emerged as the third most popular New Year’s resolution for Brits in 2025, with a total of 21,480 searches related to travel in the past 30 days.

Most Searched Areas

• Leading the Pack: Dartford residents are the most enthusiastic travelers, with 176 searches per 100,000 people, indicating a strong desire to explore new destinations. Dunfermline and Redhill follow closely, with 158 and 155 searches per 100,000 residents respectively.
• Urban Exploration: In larger cities, Croydon maintains its leading position with 103 travel-related searches per 100,000 people. Chelmsford and Eastbourne round out the top three with 98 and 93 searches per 100,000 residents, respectively.

Tips

• Plan Ahead (But Be Flexible): Start planning your trips in advance to secure the best deals and accommodations. However, be prepared to adapt your plans if unexpected circumstances arise.
• Set a Budget and Stick to It: Determine how much you can realistically afford to spend on travel and create a budget that accounts for flights, accommodation, food, activities, and souvenirs.
• Prioritize Experiences: Focus on experiences over material possessions. Explore local cultures, try new foods, and connect with the people you meet along the way.
• Travel Sustainably: Choose eco-friendly accommodations, minimize your carbon footprint, and support local businesses and communities.
• Travel Responsibly: Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment.

While the destination is undoubtedly important, remember to embrace the journey itself. Embrace the unexpected, savor the moments, and create lasting memories that will enrich your life.

4. Learning A New Skill – 20,440 Searches

The pursuit of knowledge and personal growth is a timeless human endeavor. Whether it’s acquiring new professional skills, developing a creative hobby, or simply expanding one’s horizons, learning new things enriches our lives and brings a sense of fulfillment. This aligns perfectly with the fourth most popular New Year’s resolution for Brits in 2025, with 20,440 searches related to learning new skills or acquiring new hobbies in the analyzed period.

Most Searched Areas

• Leading the Charge: Residents of Braintree, Kettering, and Dartford exhibit the strongest desire for learning, with 130, 125, and 123 searches per 100,000 people respectively, indicating a strong emphasis on personal and professional development in these areas.
• Urban Learning Hubs: In larger cities, Croydon, Birmingham, and Lincoln emerge as centers for learning, with 109, 106, and 105 searches per 100,000 residents respectively, reflecting a vibrant urban culture that embraces education and personal growth.

Tips

• Explore Your Interests: Identify your passions and explore areas that genuinely excite you.
• Start Small and Consistent: Begin with small, achievable goals, such as learning a few new words in a foreign language each day or practicing a musical instrument for 15 minutes daily.
• Find a Learning Method That Suits You: Experiment with different learning styles, such as online courses, books, workshops, or mentorship programs.
• Embrace Challenges: Step outside your comfort zone and embrace new challenges.
• Find a Learning Community: Connect with other learners through online forums, local groups, or social media to share experiences and stay motivated.
• Celebrate Your Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small, to reinforce positive learning habits.

Embracing lifelong learning brings numerous benefits, including increased cognitive function, enhanced creativity, improved problem-solving skills, and a greater sense of personal fulfillment. By cultivating a love of learning, we can unlock our full potential and continue to grow and evolve throughout our lives.

5. Saving money – 16,750 Searches

In an era of rising inflation and economic uncertainty, financial security has become a top priority for many. Recognizing the importance of a strong financial foundation, saving money emerges as the fifth most popular New Year’s resolution for Brits in 2025, with 16,750 searches related to the topic in the past 30 days.

Most Searched Areas

• Leading the Charge: Residents of Keighley and Dunfermline exhibit the strongest interest in saving money, with 119 searches per 100,000 people in each location. Batley follows closely, with 118 searches per 100,000 inhabitants.
• Urban Financial Goals: In larger cities, Manchester takes the lead with 101 searches per 100,000 people, followed by Blackpool (89) and Salford (84), indicating a strong focus on financial stability among urban residents.

Tips

• Create a Budget: Track your income and expenses to understand your spending habits and identify areas where you can cut back.
• Set Realistic Savings Goals: Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) savings goals.
• Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic transfers to a savings account to ensure consistent contributions.
• Reduce Expenses: Identify and eliminate unnecessary expenses, such as subscriptions, dining out, and impulse purchases.
• Increase Your Income: Explore opportunities to increase your income through side hustles, freelance work, or negotiating a raise.
• Invest Wisely: Consider investing your savings in appropriate investment vehicles to grow your wealth over time.

Saving money is a crucial step towards achieving financial security and achieving long-term financial goals. By implementing these strategies and maintaining a consistent approach to saving, Brits can build a strong financial foundation for the future.

6. Advancing In Or Changing Careers – 15,030 Searches

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, continuous professional development is more crucial than ever. Recognizing the importance of career growth, Brits have placed it as their sixth most popular New Year’s resolution for 2025, with 15,030 searches related to career progression or change in the analyzed period.

Most Searched Areas

• Leading the Charge: Residents of Bury, Braintree, and Hove exhibit the strongest ambition for career advancement, with 114, 112, and 106 searches per 100,000 people respectively, indicating a strong desire for professional growth in these areas.
• Urban Career Aspirations: In major UK cities, Wolverhampton, Wakefield, and Croydon emerge as hubs of career ambition, with 91, 82, and 80 searches per 100,000 people respectively, reflecting a dynamic urban environment where individuals are actively seeking new opportunities.

Tips

• Identify Your Career Goals: Define your short-term and long-term career aspirations. What kind of role do you want to achieve? What skills do you need to develop?
• Assess Your Current Skills: Identify your strengths and weaknesses and identify areas for improvement.
• Develop a Career Plan: Create a roadmap for achieving your career goals, including steps you need to take, skills you need to acquire, and milestones you need to reach.
• Network and Build Relationships: Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and build a strong professional network.
• Invest in Your Development: Explore opportunities for professional development, such as online courses, workshops, certifications, and mentorship programs.
• Embrace Continuous Learning: Cultivate a growth mindset and embrace continuous learning throughout your career.

By proactively pursuing career growth and development, Brits can increase their earning potential, enhance their job satisfaction, and achieve greater success in their professional lives.

7. Quitting Smoking – 10,590 Searches

Aligned with the broader focus on healthy living, a significant number of Brits are prioritizing quitting smoking and vaping in 2025. With 10,590 searches related to smoking cessation in the past 30 days, it’s evident that many individuals are determined to break free from nicotine addiction.

Most Searched Areas

• Leading the Way: Residents of Dunfermline and Clacton-on-Sea demonstrate the strongest commitment to quitting, with 79 searches per 100,000 people in each location. Dartford also shows significant interest, with 70 searches per 100,000 people.
• Urban Quitting Efforts: In major cities, Croydon, Manchester, and Salford are leading the charge, with 57, 55, and 53 searches per 100,000 people respectively, reflecting a growing awareness of the health risks associated with smoking and vaping.

Tips

• Set a Quit Date: Choose a specific date to quit and make a public commitment to yourself and others.
• Identify and Address Triggers: Identify situations or emotions that trigger cravings and develop coping mechanisms.
• Seek Support: Utilize resources such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), support groups, or counseling services.
• Engage in Physical Activity: Exercise can help reduce stress and cravings, making it easier to quit.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support your body during the withdrawal process.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush out toxins and reduce cravings.
• Avoid Temptations: Remove all cigarettes and vaping devices from your home and avoid places where smoking or vaping is permitted.
• Celebrate Your Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate your milestones, no matter how small, to stay motivated.

Quitting smoking and vaping can significantly improve your overall health and well-being. By utilizing available resources and seeking support, individuals can successfully overcome nicotine addiction and embark on a healthier future.

8. Improving Mental Health – 10,150 Searches

While mental health awareness has significantly increased, it still ranks eighth among the most popular New Year’s resolutions for Brits in 2025, with 10,150 searches related to mental well-being in the past 30 days. This highlights the ongoing need to prioritize mental health and destigmatize seeking support.

Most Searched Areas

• Leading the Charge: Residents of Batley demonstrate the strongest interest in mental health, with 98 searches per 100,000 people. Horsham and Reigate follow closely, with 97 and 95 searches per 100,000 people respectively.
• Urban Awareness: In major cities, Bath and Worcester lead the way with 49 searches per 100,000 people each, followed closely by Lincoln with 48 searches per 100,000 people, indicating a growing awareness of mental health concerns within urban populations.

Tips

• Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction, such as mindfulness, yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
• Prioritize Sleep: Ensure you get enough quality sleep, as it plays a crucial role in mental and emotional well-being.
• Connect with Others: Maintain strong social connections and engage in meaningful relationships with family and friends.
• Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from therapists, counselors, or mental health professionals if needed.
• Challenge Negative Thoughts: Practice self-compassion and challenge negative thought patterns.
• Engage in Physical Activity: Regular exercise can significantly improve mood and reduce stress levels.
• Prioritize Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness techniques to increase self-awareness and reduce anxiety.

Prioritizing mental health is crucial for overall well-being. By raising awareness, reducing stigma, and providing accessible support, we can create a society that prioritizes mental well-being for all.

9. Drinking Less Alcohol – 6,990 Searches

As part of their overall health and wellness goals, many Brits are prioritizing a reduction in alcohol consumption in 2025. With 6,990 searches related to this topic in the past 30 days, it’s clear that a growing number of individuals are seeking to moderate their alcohol intake.

Most Searched Areas

• Leading the Charge: Residents of Keighley and Dunfermline exhibit the strongest desire to reduce alcohol consumption, with 79 searches per 100,000 people in each location. Redhill follows closely, with 77 searches per 100,000 residents.
• Urban Moderation: In major cities, Bath takes the lead with 39 searches per 100,000 people, followed by Lincoln (38) and Maidstone (37), indicating a growing awareness of the health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption within urban populations.

Tips

• Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable goals, such as having two alcohol-free days per week.
• Track Your Alcohol Intake: Monitor your alcohol consumption to identify patterns and triggers.
• Find Alternatives: Explore non-alcoholic beverages, such as sparkling water, herbal teas, and fruit juices.
• Practice Mindful Drinking: Pay attention to your body’s signals and drink slowly and mindfully.
• Engage in Alternative Activities: Find enjoyable activities to replace alcohol consumption, such as socializing with friends over coffee, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in physical activity.
• Seek Support: If you’re struggling to reduce your alcohol intake, consider seeking support from friends, family, or a healthcare professional.

Reducing alcohol consumption can offer numerous health benefits, including improved sleep, increased energy levels, better physical health, and improved mental well-being.

10. Self-Organisation – 6,840 Searches

While often underestimated, the ability to stay organized can significantly impact our productivity, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Recognizing its importance, Brits have placed “getting organized” as their eighth and final priority for 2025, with 6,840 searches related to this topic in the past 30 days.

Most Searched Areas

• Leading the Charge: Residents of Halesowen demonstrate the strongest desire for improved organization, with 108 searches per 100,000 people. Dunfermline and Wellingborough follow closely, with 99 and 98 searches per 100,000 residents respectively.
• Urban Organization: In major cities, Bath takes the lead with 59 searches per 100,000 people, followed by Lincoln (48) and Maidstone (46), indicating a growing awareness of the benefits of a more organized lifestyle within urban environments.

Tips

• Declutter Your Space: Start by decluttering your physical and digital spaces. Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need or use.
• Plan and Prioritize: Create to-do lists, schedules, and calendars to prioritize tasks and stay on track.
• Set Realistic Goals: Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
• Utilize Organizational Tools: Utilize tools such as planners, note-taking apps, and project management software to stay organized and efficient.
• Develop Good Habits: Cultivate healthy habits such as setting aside time for planning, cleaning, and tidying up.
• Minimize Distractions: Identify and minimize distractions that can hinder your productivity, such as social media, email, and unnecessary interruptions.
• Seek Support: If you’re struggling to stay organized, consider seeking advice from a professional organizer or productivity coach.

The Benefits of a Well-Organized Life:

By prioritizing organization, individuals can reduce stress, increase productivity, improve time management, and enhance their overall sense of well-being.

Sources 

Google Keyword Planner 

Methodology: 

1. A list of 75 keywords related to common New Year’s resolutions was created. These keywords were grouped into clusters based on the resolutions they are associated with. 

2. Google Keyword Planner was used to retrieve the monthly search volume data for each keyword cluster. 

3. The search volume for the clusters was retrieved at both the national level and for each city with over 50,000 inhabitants. 

4. The average number of monthly searches was adjusted for the city population to calculate the number of searches per 100,000 people.