As the calendar turns to a new year, the season of giving, gathering with loved ones, and reflecting on the year past seamlessly transforms into a season of fresh starts. It’s also a time to consider how to make the year ahead better than the one we’re leaving behind. And for many, this means crafting the perfect New Year’s resolution.

While fitness and diet industries revel in our annual resolve, a familiar cycle often unfolds: bold promises, inevitable backsliding, and the nagging question: Could I have chosen a better resolution?

The answer lies in reframing the question: What resolution can I make that keeps me moving forward, no matter what? For many, upgrading education and training tops that list.

As you contemplate your goals for 2025, take a moment to evaluate your current career trajectory and where you aspire to be. What steps can bring you closer to that vision? For most, enhancing skills or earning new qualifications is an essential part of the equation.

Imagine welcoming the new year with a commitment to personal and professional growth, whether by gaining sought-after skills, pursuing a degree, landing that promotion, or pivoting into an in-demand field.

In today’s ever-evolving job market, resolving to upgrade your education and career skills is a transformative choice. These tools are not fleeting; they propel careers forward, whether by deepening expertise in a current role or unlocking doors to new opportunities.

As an educator and university leader, I witness thousands of adult learners take decisive steps toward brighter futures every day. These individuals are preparing for careers in high-demand fields such as healthcare, nursing, business, teaching, and information technology—sectors hungry for skilled professionals.

Fortunately, accessible pathways to education exist. Accredited universities and community colleges nationwide are designed to help individuals achieve their goals. At institutions like Western Governors University (WGU), programs cater to the unique needs of adult learners balancing full-time jobs and family responsibilities. By offering accredited bachelor’s and master’s degrees, schools like WGU empower students to advance their careers on their own terms.

For many, the idea of finding time and resources for further education feels daunting. Yet, today’s landscape offers unprecedented flexibility and support. Financial aid programs, counseling services, and innovative learning models make higher education more accessible than ever.

Institutions like WGU leverage a competency-based approach, allowing students to earn credit for skills acquired through prior work, education, or life experiences. This model ensures students can focus on mastering new knowledge rather than revisiting old lessons.

This year, as you set your resolutions (or advise someone close to you), consider a decision that can ignite lasting transformation. Investing in education strengthens your job prospects and enhances your earning potential and personal fulfillment.

Resolve to take the life-changing step of upgrading your skills, whether through WGU or another accredited institution tailored to adult learners. By doing so, you’ll position yourself for success in 2025 and beyond, ensuring that this year’s resolution becomes a revolution in your life.