Silence may be key to achieving goals, as studies show keeping resolutions private boosts success rates.
Silence and goal achievement linked
Psychologists have conducted a large study to explore whether silence plays a key role in achieving one's goals. According to psychoanalyst Christian Richomme, many people make lists of changes they wish to make, such as eating better, exercising more, working less, stopping procrastination, or becoming happier. However, these resolutions often fail by February, sometimes even before.Progressive change over strict rules
Richomme explains that real change emerges from understanding rather than constraint, emphasizing that progressivity—small, repeated steps—has more impact than ambitious resolutions that are abandoned. The brain prefers regularity over abrupt changes.Secret goals lead to better results
A study conducted by the University of New York found that keeping goals secret and taking time to achieve them was more effective. People who kept their goals secret worked an average of 45 minutes per task, compared to 33 minutes for those who announced their intentions. Despite working about 25% less time, those who remained silent felt closer to their goals.Experts suggest avoiding public declarations
Psychologist Peter Gollwitzer, who led the research, suggests that sharing intentions can lead to premature satisfaction, which may reduce motivation. This concept has gained traction on social networks, particularly on TikTok.TikTok influencers promote private goal-setting
Content creators such as @noemoneyyy and @mandanazarfhami advise keeping goals private until they are achieved. @noemoneyyy, who previously shared everything with friends and family, claims that keeping things to oneself leads to better outcomes. @mandanazarfhami similarly advises keeping personal aspirations private until they are realized.
