According to historical records, it is believed that the concept of a New Year’s resolution dates back some 4,000 years ago to the ancient Babylonians. Although the year began in midMarch, rather than in January, they are said to have made promises to the king and the gods to pay their debts or return borrowed goods—serving as an antecedent to the modern New Year’s resolution as we know it. First celebrated in 46 B.C. after Julius Caesar adjusted the calendar to institute January 1 as the start of the new year, this date marks the tradition of reviewing our accomplishments and downfalls, resolving to make changes in the future.
