7 questions to ask yourself for the New Year: how NYT psychologists recommend summarizing the year.

According to ТСН: Traditional New Year's resolutions, which often include the desire to change life for the better or get rid of bad habits, rarely lead to results as they are not based on a deep understanding of oneself. Psychology experts suggest a technique of "right questions" to prepare for the new year.

Here are 7 questions to ask yourself right now.

1. What should you really remember from 2025?

Don't focus only on career achievements or purchases. Psychologist Candy Vince advises paying attention to the "real things" that gave meaning to the year. These can be meaningful conversations, moments of solitude, or significant situations that impacted your life.

2. When did you feel the most joyful and carefree?

Recall your moments of happiness. Where were you and with whom? Philosophy professor Valerie Tiberi notes that the answer to this question is your happiness map for the next year, suggesting what you should focus on in the future.

3. What gave you energy, and what drained it?

"Two people can experience the same event but come out of it completely differently," says clinical psychologist Deepika Chopra. Make two lists: "donors" and "vampires" of your energy to plan 2026 with a focus on beneficial actions.

4. What seemed impossible, but you did it?

Recall the challenges you overcame. This is a confirmation of your resilience. Realizing your own strength is more effective than any affirmations during uncertainty.

5. What habit would change your life if it became regular?

We often look for new opportunities, forgetting about simple things. Perhaps you already have a beneficial habit that you do irregularly? The stability of one beneficial action can yield better results than dozens of new ventures.

6. What were you trying to control, even though it was beyond your influence?

The fastest way to reduce mental load is to let go of what is beyond your control. Consider where you were wasting nerves unnecessarily and leave it in the past year.

7. Is there someone you need to forgive?

Psychologist Anthony Chambers notes that forgiveness is not forgetting; it is the choice not to let the past influence your present. This opens the way for joy.

“What could be a better way to enter 2026 than the feeling of freedom?”

It is particularly interesting that New Year's celebrations are accompanied by many traditions in different countries. Many celebrate the holiday with fire, loud sounds, and even talks with animals. These customs can surprise even experienced travelers.

By asking yourself these questions, you will gain a deeper understanding of your needs and desires, which will help not only in the new year but also in your daily life. As psychologists say, knowing yourself is the first step on the path to personal change and development.