From resolutions to real actions: A mid-year wake-up call

A few days ago, my brother called me, wanting to postpone our weekend meeting — something we call बौद्धिक — an intellectual discussion the three of us brothers have been doing regularly around topics of shared interest. He had an important presentation at a conference, and suddenly—only one day was left to prepare. 

He said something we’ve all felt at some point, “It was 24×7 in my mind that I have to prepare. But I was just too busy—so I thought, afternoon… then evening… then tomorrow morning… and now, just one day is left!”

I told him what I always say, to him and to anyone in this situation,  “Having something in mind isn’t enough. You have to break it down into small, doable tasks—and pick them up one at a time, by looking out for the right pocket of time, among thee available ones”. This is so critical that I tweaked an old adage: No pain, no gain to – No plan, no gain

Very similar patterns play out with medium to large projects in our lives—and also with the New Year’s resolutions we set. Now that we’re halfway through the year, many people have already forgotten their resolutions. Let me urge you not to be one of them.

Your New Year resolutions weren’t impulsive thoughts. They were rooted in hope, ambition, and self-belief. If a resolution no longer feels relevant, let it go. But if it still matters to you, don’t shrink it. Don’t quietly abandon it.

You don’t need to feel guilty. What you need is a fresh plan. Instead of letting those goals gather dust, revisit your list. Let’s take an example. Say your resolution was to “start a business.” It sounds exciting—but can feel overwhelming. Here’s how you can break it down into manageable steps:

1. Clarify the idea – What problem will your business solve? Jot it down in one sentence.
2. Research the market – Identify existing players, gaps, and demand.
3. Talk to 3 people – Get feedback from peers or potential customers.
4. Sketch a simple plan – Even one page is enough to get moving.
5. Block time – Schedule 2 focused hours every weekend.
6. Register a domain – Reserve your business name online.
7. Set up a separate bank account – Keeps money matters clean from day one.

Notice how this turns an ambitious resolution into a clear, manageable path? That’s the power of breaking it down.

Your resolutions were goals—not actions, so you need to break them down to actions. Redraw your mind map(s), if they require revision. Pick up the actions. The work breakdown is where real progress begins.

So here’s your wake-up call: Do it. Or redo it. But make sure you have a real plan — not just a noble thought floating in your mind.

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