h, New Year’s Eve. The glitter, the countdown, the fireworks... and, of course, the overly ambitious resolutions we swear we’ll stick to this time. For me, it’s the 30th lap around the sun, but honestly, do the first 15 really count?

Back then, my New Year excitement was mostly borrowed from the grown-ups around me. By the time I hit my teenage years, their enthusiasm had run out, and I had to start generating my own hype.

But hey, every year brings its lessons, doesn’t it?

The early years were simple. I hadn’t had any deep reflections till then, nor any self-improvement agendas — just fireworks, questionable pranks and stories that would make your future self cringe with second-hand embarrassment. Like that one time a rogue firecracker chased a friend down the street, or when you knocked on doors and bolted before anyone answered. Ah, chaos. Pure, innocent chaos.

Then, adulthood crept in. Somewhere in your late teens or early twenties, you started making big promises to yourself. “This year, I’ll get a six-pack.” “This year, I’ll ace every exam.” Or, maybe after a heartbreak, “This year, I’ll not let anyone cross my boundaries.”

But let’s be real: most of these resolutions came without a solid plan. The gym was packed in January, empty by February. Your journal was filled with goals that sounded more like wishes. And those boundaries? Well, they became more flexible than they should’ve been.

I’m not here to pop your festive balloon, promise. I’m here to share a perspective that actually works.

It’s tiny, consistent steps that create real, lasting change. You’re not climbing a mountain in one leap; you’re taking it one manageable step at a time.

Step 1: Look back before you move forward

Scroll through your phone gallery. Remember the little moments, not just the big highlights. It’s easy to dwell on what went wrong, but those tiny flashes of joy? They’re worth celebrating. Gratitude is the best foundation for growth.

Step 2: Focus on habits, not milestones

Big, bold goals are inspiring but often overwhelming. Instead of chasing the end result, fall in love with the process. If you want to be healthier, just show up at the gym today, don’t think about the next six months. If you want to be kinder, take a breath before you snap at someone. If you want to make more money, dedicate one extra hour a week to a side project you love. If you want to grow spiritually, start with a prayer a day.

It’s these tiny, consistent steps that create real, lasting change. You’re not climbing a mountain in one leap; you’re taking it one manageable step at a time.

However, forget the deep talks for now. (Only if you’ve digested them so far.) New Year’s Eve should always have a sprinkle of youthful chaos. Laugh loudly, stay up too late and let yourself be. After all, life isn’t just about ticking off goals — it’s about collecting stories, too.

So here’s to you, the goofy kid you were, the reflective adult you’ve become, and the version of you that’s still unfolding.

Happy New Year! Now go make it count, one small step at a time.

Shaafay Zia is an ex-serviceman and a freelancer. He can be reached at shaafayzia@gmail.com