---

---

“New month, new mindset—what’s one goal for March?”

We often think of January as the time for resolutions, but research shows that any new temporal landmark—like the start of a month—can boost motivation. This phenomenon, known as the “fresh start effect,” suggests that people are more likely to pursue their goals when they perceive a clean slate or new beginning. Below, we’ll explore evidence-based insights on why setting monthly goals is so powerful and how to make them work for you.

1. The ‘Fresh Start Effect’ and Why It Works

According to Dai, Milkman, and Riis (2014), temporal landmarks (like a new month or birthday) create psychological separation from our past selves, allowing us to feel more capable of change. By marking March as a fresh start, you’re essentially giving yourself permission to let go of past setbacks and re-energize your motivation.

Key Takeaway: A new month provides the mental reset needed to pursue goals with renewed enthusiasm.

2. Goal-Setting Theory: The Power of Clarity

Renowned psychologists Locke and Latham (1990) emphasise that clear, challenging goals lead to higher performance. Instead of saying, “I want to be healthier,” try, “I will walk for 30 minutes, three times a week throughout March.” Clear goals create a roadmap for your brain, making it easier to focus your energy and measure success.

Key Takeaway: Specific and challenging (yet achievable) goals boost motivation and help you track progress.

3. Breaking Goals into Smaller Milestones

It’s not enough to set a monthly goal; chunk it down into manageable steps. Research in habit formation suggests that tiny, consistent actions can build momentum and self-efficacy (Gollwitzer, 1999). For example, if your March goal is to read more, break it down to “read 10 pages every day” or “finish one book by March 15.”

Key Takeaway: Smaller milestones offer quick wins, reinforcing positive behavior and increasing the likelihood of sticking to your goal.

4. Harnessing the “Implementation Intention” Strategy

Implementation intentions are “if-then” plans that link a specific situation to a desired action (Gollwitzer, 1999). For instance, “If it’s 7 AM, then I will journal for 10 minutes.” This approach automates your response to certain cues, reducing reliance on willpower alone.

Key Takeaway: Tie your goal to a daily cue or time of day to streamline your routine and reduce decision fatigue.

5. Celebrate Small Wins

Research by Amabile and Kramer (2011) highlights the power of small wins in fueling motivation. When you celebrate each step—whether it’s finishing a short workout or sticking to a new habit for a week—you release dopamine, which boosts your mood and reinforces the behaviour.

Key Takeaway: Regularly acknowledge and reward your progress to maintain enthusiasm and commitment.

Putting It All Together: Your March Action Plan

1. Identify One Clear Goal

Make it specific, measurable, and slightly challenging.

2. Break It Down

Divide it into weekly or even daily mini-goals.

3. Use Implementation Intentions

Link your new habit to a specific time or cue.

4. Track & Celebrate

Keep a simple log or journal, and reward yourself for each small win.

Remember: A fresh month is a psychological cue that you can start anew. Embrace that energy and channel it into actionable goals—your future self will thank you.

References

• Amabile, T. M., & Kramer, S. J. (2011). The Power of Small Wins. Harvard Business Review.

• Dai, H., Milkman, K. L., & Riis, J. (2014). The fresh start effect: Temporal landmarks motivate aspirational behavior. Management Science, 60(10), 2563–2582.

• Gollwitzer, P. M. (1999). Implementation intentions: Strong effects of simple plans. American Psychologist, 54(7), 493–503.

• Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (1990). A Theory of Goal Setting & Task Performance. Prentice-Hall.

What’s one goal you’re setting for March? Share in the comments and let’s cheer each other on for a productive and fulfilling month ahead!