History and Significance of New Year's Resolutions

The video explores the history and significance of New Year's resolutions, tracing their origins from ancient Babylonian times to modern-day traditions like the Times Square ball drop. It discusses the evolution of calendars, including the Julian and Gregorian systems, and highlights studies on the success rates of resolutions, emphasizing the role of failure in achieving goals.

What percentage of Americans are expected to make a New Year's resolution?

• 20%

• 80%

• 40%

• 60%

Which ancient civilization is credited with one of the earliest forms of New Year's resolutions?

• Babylonian

• Greek

• Roman

• Egyptian

What was the primary reason for the Babylonian New Year starting in March?

• End of winter

• Start of barley planting season

• Religious festival

• End of the fiscal year

Who introduced the Julian calendar, which included January as the first month?

• Nero

• Julius Caesar

• Marcus Aurelius

• Augustus Caesar

What does the Roman god Janus symbolize?

• War and peace

• Love and hate

• New beginnings

• Wealth and prosperity

What event in New York City is a modern symbol of New Year's celebrations?

• Thanksgiving Parade

• Times Square ball drop

• Halloween Parade

• Fourth of July fireworks

Why was the Times Square ball not dropped in 1942 and 1943?

• Technical failure

• World War II concerns

• Weather conditions

• Financial issues

According to Jonathan Norcross's study, how many times did successful resolvers typically slip up?

• 20 times

• 14 times

• 10 times

• 5 times

What is a key factor that increases the likelihood of success for New Year's resolutions?

• Avoiding any slip-ups

• Making a resolution at New Year's

• Starting in March

• Setting a vague goal

What method does the video suggest for tracking progress on New Year's resolutions?

• Writing in a journal

• Telling a friend

• Using a mobile app

• Making a video blog