The transition into a new year is more than a change of date; it is what psychologists call a temporal landmark—a cognitive boundary that separates our “past selves” from our “future selves.” This boundary often produces an emotional surge: optimism rises, confidence swells, and suddenly the impossible feels attainable. Researchers refer to this phenomenon as the Fresh Start Effect.

Yet while these emotional highs build momentum for action, they rarely sustain it. Goals may provide direction, but systems—our habits, routines, and behavioural patterns—provide traction. James Clear has rightfully said, “We don’t rise to the level of our goals; we fall to the level of our systems.”