The problem with “New Year, new me”

Sometimes it feels like you can hardly have a conversation this time of the year without hearing the phrase “New Year, New Me.” This catchy cliche captures the essence of the new year’s resolution mindset that pervades much of the weight loss industry. It implies that there is something fundamentally wrong with the subject of the phrase and that they can instantly eliminate this problem as soon as the clock strikes midnight. It suggests that reaching and maintaining a healthy weight is possible simply by having the willpower necessary to become a new version of yourself. This story is a fantasy, and it can lead many people to feel a sense of guilt or shame when their new self doesn’t magically emerge at the start of the new year.

A person’s weight is the result of complex interactions between a vast array of biological and behavioral factors and making a healthy change requires a program that considers all of these factors. This is why so many people struggle to lose weight with new year’s resolutions and traditional weight loss programs. Obesity is a disease, not a decision. It’s not enough to simply decide to try a new diet or exercise routine. For many people, reaching and maintaining a healthy weight using these techniques alone is extremely difficult because of underlying aspects of their biology or genetics. For this group, the “New Year, New Me” mindset common across the weight loss industry provides no guidance and can be counterproductive by contributing to the “yo-yo effect.” The inability to keep up with the unrealistic expectations this little phrase creates can lead to unhealthy behaviors and thought patterns that only make it more difficult to reach a healthy weight.

Unlike traditional weight loss programs, at Found, we understand that obesity is a disease, not a decision. We understand that for many people, the most effective way to reach a healthy weight is through a medical approach. We schedule appointments for our members with care practitioners who specialize in weight health—and take the time to understand the specifics of each member’s biology and prescribe the right medications to address their weight health needs, just like they would approach any other medical condition. 

In 2022 it’s time to reject the tired old cliché of “New Year, New Me.” Instead of buying into the counterproductive new year’s resolution narrative, find a program that actually works for you with Found. If you’re ready to make a lasting change, click below to take our eligibility quiz and find your ideal program.

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