Resolutions for a Life Well-Lived
As a new year begins, many people set goals for productivity or fitness. But Baylor’s research reminds us that living a flourishing life is a much more holistic process — it’s about living a life of purpose, balance and connection. Drawing on insights from Baylor faculty, here are five resolutions rooted in research to cultivate a well-lived life.
Practice Virtues with Intention
Virtue formation is not an instant, one-time occurrence. Instead, it’s a lifelong trajectory that requires intentional action. Sarah Schnitker, Ph.D., professor of psychology and neuroscience and director of the BRIGHTS Center, researches how habits like gratitude and patience grow through consistent practice. A person’s virtues influence how they interact with others and find purpose.
Application: At the end of each day, ask: What tested my patience today? How could I respond differently next time? Connect these questions to something bigger than yourself — a sense of calling or faith — to encourage sustainable habits.
Prioritize Sleep and Health
Sleep is foundational for mental clarity, emotional resilience and all-around well- being. Michael Scullin, Ph.D., professor of psychology and neuroscience and director of Baylor’s Sleep Neuroscience and Cognition Laboratory, emphasizes that flourishing begins with caring for the body that carries you through daily life. Scullin says, “A well-rested brain sets a person up for success.”
Application: Prioritize restful sleep by setting consistent bedtime reminders and limiting screen time before bed.
Deepen Spiritual Rhythms
Spiritual practices are essential to well-being. Prayer, scripture reading and worship are more than rituals — they are practices that anchor identity and purpose. University Chaplain Charles Ramsey, B.A. ’97, M.A. ’00, Ph.D., described this idea as a root system, saying, “If you have a weak root system and you’re not able to withstand the atmospheric pressures of life, then you won’t bear the fruits you’re intended to bear.” Whether through prayer, scripture or worship, nurture rhythms that ground you in faith and purpose.
Application: Pair scripture with reflection and ask: What does this reveal about God? How does it shape my actions today?
Engage with Beauty
Art — whether you’re creating or experiencing it — feeds the soul. The Exceptional Performance Lab in Baylor’s School of Education studies creativity, innovation and problem-solving as pathways to flourishing. Their work emphasizes how engaging in creative activities can enhance cognitive flexibility, emotional resilience and overall thriving. Beauty, whether it’s naturally occurring or created, reminds us that life is more than deadlines and tasks.
Application: Make art part of your regular rhythm this year. Schedule a museum visit, join a local choir or set aside time for creative expression at home. Even brief encounters with beauty can nurture joy, strengthen relationships and remind us that flourishing is as much about wonder as it is achievement.
Develop Close Social Relationships
Relationships matter, perhaps more than anything else. In the recently released Global Flourishing Study, countries with a lower GDP often reported higher levels of thriving and flourishing thanks to strong social bonds
and communal support. Many people in the United States have economic security, but they struggle with relationships and meaning.
Application: Relationships built on respect and trust are more likely to last, but good relationships take work. Be sure to actively listen to your friends, value each other’s differences and lean into areas of common interest. Keep relationships strong with ongoing care and making time for each other.