Did you keep your 2024 resolutions? Ugandans reflect on wins and misses

As 2024 comes to an end, many Ugandans are reflecting on their resolutions and the strides they made or didn’t make toward achieving them. For some, it was a year of remarkable growth and fulfillment. For others, life’s unexpected twists got in the way.

Charmar News spoke to individuals from across the country to uncover their stories and lessons from the year.

For Sarah Namatovu, a 29-year-old entrepreneur in Kampala, 2024 marked a significant personal milestone.

“My resolution was to save enough money to start my own boutique. I’ve always had a passion for fashion, but saving in the past had been a challenge,” she shared.

Namatovu adopted strict financial discipline, cutting down on unnecessary expenses and keeping a detailed budget.

“By August, I had enough to rent a space and buy my initial stock. My shop opened in September, and while it’s still small, I’m proud of this achievement,” she added with a smile.

Fred Kagwa, a 35-year-old teacher in Mbale, started 2024 with high hopes for improving his health. “I joined a gym in January and promised myself I’d lose 15 kilograms by the end of the year,” he said.

Fred began strong, consistently working out and changing his diet for the first three months. However, as the school term progressed, his schedule got busier, and fitness took a backseat.

“By mid-year, I had stopped going to the gym altogether. I’m ending the year at the same weight I started with. But I’ve learned that consistency is key, and I’ll try again in 2025,” he confessed.

For Ritah Kayongo, a 33-year-old mother of two from Mbarara, 2024 was a year of unexpected challenges. Her resolution was to enroll in a professional development course to boost her career prospects, but life had other plans.

“In March, my husband lost his job, and we had to tighten our belts to cover school fees for our children. The course became a luxury we couldn’t afford,” she explained.

Kayongo said the experience taught her resilience and the importance of prioritizing family needs over personal ambitions. “The course will wait, but my family comes first,” she added.

Joseph Lule, a 40-year-old mechanic in Mukono, set two major goals for 2024: saving for a car and quitting smoking. While he didn’t achieve both, he feels a sense of progress.

“I managed to save half of the money I need for the car. I hope to complete it next year,” he said. However, quitting smoking proved more difficult.

“I’ve cut down significantly, but I haven’t fully stopped. I’m not giving up, though. Progress, not perfection, is what I’m focusing on,” Lule remarked.

Not everyone believes in the annual ritual of setting resolutions. For Jane Namayanja, a 58-year-old retired nurse in Entebbe, life is better without the pressure.

“I used to make resolutions every year, and I’d feel terrible when I didn’t meet them. Now, I live each day with intention and take small steps toward improvement. It’s less stressful and more rewarding,” she shared.

Psychologist Dr. Henry Mubiru says many people fail to achieve their resolutions because they set unrealistic goals or lack clear plans.

“Resolutions are only effective if they’re specific, measurable, and achievable. Break your big goals into smaller, actionable steps and track your progress regularly. Don’t forget to celebrate small wins it keeps you motivated,” Dr. Mubiru advised.

On the financial front, expert Miriam Aine emphasized the importance of discipline. “Financial resolutions, such as saving or reducing debt, require consistent effort. Create a budget, track your spending, and set aside a portion of your income regularly. Building an emergency fund can also help cushion unexpected challenges,” she suggested.

As 2025 approaches, many Ugandans are reflecting on the lessons of 2024. Whether they succeeded or fell short of their goals, the common thread is resilience and a willingness to try again.

The new year offers a fresh start, a chance to redefine priorities, and an opportunity to turn aspirations into achievements. Whether you plan to focus on health, finances, or personal growth, 2025 holds the promise of new possibilities.