Every new year, people set resolutions with the intent of kicking a bad habit or making a commitment that will benefit them in the long run. People make promises to exercise more, to save money, or to finally tackle long-delayed goals. Unfortunately, most of these resolutions fizzle out by the following month.

The new year is often filled with resolutions, such as exercising more, saving money, or finally tackling a long-delayed project. Although resolutions are usually made with a healthy sense of motivation in the moment, numerous studies show that most people abandon them by the following month.

Choosing the right graduate program can open doors to meaningful, well-paid, and fulfilling work. For me, the turning point was discovering a career path I hadn’t even known existed: industrial and organizational psychology. Thanks to a mentor, I pursued this field—and it has been a fast track to impactful and rewarding opportunities. Now, as director of the Rockhurst University M.S. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology program, I’m fortunate to help students take the same journey.

In more than 30 years in higher education leadership, I can’t recall a time as complex as the one we’re in now. There has been a shift: demographic changes, evolving perceptions of the value of a degree, and widespread calls for accountability are all converging. Navigating this environment takes more than strategic thinking. It takes courage. And it takes a steadfast commitment to ethical leadership.