Americans’ Top New Year’s Resolutions for 2026

What Americans Want From 2026

A new national poll is offering a snapshot of how Americans are approaching the new year — and the results suggest optimism, self-improvement, and balance are top of mind. According to a recent survey from YouGov, nearly one-third of U.S. adults say they plan to set a New Year’s resolution or goal as 2026 begins.

The Top Five New Year’s Resolutions

Among those planning to make a resolution, exercise remains the most popular priority, with 25% of respondents saying they want to be more active. Close behind is a desire to be happier (23%), followed by eating healthier (22%), saving more money (21%), and improving physical health (21%). Together, the list reflects a continued focus on both physical well-being and personal stability.

Younger Adults and Women Show Different Priorities

The poll also highlights generational and gender differences. Americans under 45 are more likely to focus on saving money, improving mental health, learning something new, or pursuing career goals. Women, meanwhile, are more likely than men to list happiness and weight loss among their top resolutions.

Confidence Is Higher Than You Might Expect

Despite jokes about resolutions being abandoned by February, Americans appear surprisingly confident. Nearly 90% of respondents who plan to make a resolution believe they are very or somewhat likely to stick with it. About one-third say having a resolution helps them improve themselves, while others see it as neutral rather than harmful.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The poll also captured broader sentiment about the year ahead. Nearly half of Americans believe 2026 will be a good or great year for them personally, though fewer feel as optimistic about the country as a whole. The survey was conducted December 9–11 among 1,104 U.S. adults and has a margin of error of plus or minus four percentage points.