National Make Up Your Mind Day
National Make Up Your Mind Day, celebrated annually on December 31, is a day dedicated to decisiveness. It encourages individuals to stop procrastinating and make firm decisions, whether big or small. As the year ends, this holiday serves as a perfect opportunity to reflect on unresolved matters and prepare for a fresh start in the new year.
Quick Facts
- When is it? December 31 (annually)
- Tagged as: Decision-making, Self-reflection, New Year’s Eve
- What’s the hashtag? #MakeUpYourMindDay
- When was it founded? Exact founding date is unclear but believed to have originated in the 1990s.
- Who founded it? Anne C. Moeller and Monica A. Dufour of Clio, Michigan.
History of National Make Up Your Mind Day
The origins of National Make Up Your Mind Day are somewhat ambiguous, but its purpose is clear: to inspire people to take control of their lives by making decisions they can stand by. Historically, decision-making has been tied to New Year’s Eve traditions, such as the Covenant Renewal Service initiated by John Wesley in the 1700s. This day aligns with the spirit of reflection and resolution-making that accompanies the year’s end.
Timeline
- 1700s: John Wesley introduces the Covenant Renewal Service for New Year’s Eve.
- 1979: Amos Tversky and Daniel Kahneman publish “Prospect Theory,” exploring decision-making under risk.
- 2017: British psychologist Richard Wiseman finds only 12% of people successfully keep their New Year’s resolutions.
- 1990s: The holiday is believed to have originated in America during this decade.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | December 31 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | December 31 | Thursday |
| 2027 | December 31 | Friday |
| 2028 | December 31 | Sunday |
| 2029 | December 31 | Monday |
| 2030 | December 31 | Tuesday |
Observed
This day is observed by making decisions that have been delayed throughout the year. People use it as an opportunity to finalize their New Year’s resolutions or tackle lingering uncertainties.
Fun Facts About Decision-Making
- People rely more on emotions than logic when making tough decisions.
- Decision fatigue often sets in during the afternoon.
- Small teams (5–9 members) are ideal for collaborative decision-making.
- Glucose levels can impact decision-making abilities.
- Having fewer options can reduce “choice paralysis.”
Quiz
- What date is National Make Up Your Mind Day celebrated on?
- Who are credited with founding this day?
- What historical figure introduced a New Year’s Eve tradition tied to reflection and decision-making?
(Answers: 1. December 31; 2. Anne C. Moeller and Monica A. Dufour; 3. John Wesley)
FAQs
What does “Make Up Your Mind” mean?
It means to make a decision or choose between alternatives.
How can I celebrate this day?
Reflect on unresolved decisions, create a pros-and-cons list, or set your New Year’s resolutions.
Why is decisiveness important?
Being decisive builds confidence, reduces stress, and helps achieve personal and professional goals.
Related
- National Champagne Day (December 31)
- No Interruptions Day
- Leap Second Time Adjustment Day
