Local celebs share their New Year’s resolutions for 2026

Venecia Valentine

As South Africans step into 2026, the familiar debate around New Year’s resolutions returns. Some people swear by them. Others prefer looser intentions or quiet reflection. Either way, the start of a new year invites pause, perspective and a chance to move forward with purpose.

Inbound SA Entertainment spoke to a handful of local personalities to find out how they are approaching the year ahead, and whether resolutions still matter to them.

A year of purpose and impact

Singer Robin Pieters is entering 2026 with a clear focus on growth and contribution.

“My New Year’s resolutions are to be successful in my music career,” he says. “I try my best to give others an opportunity, and through that, make a difference in my community.”

For Pieters, success is measured by both personal progress and the impact he creates around him.

Finding meaning in new beginnings

Actor Irshaad Alley shares a more reflective view of resolutions.

“It’s a funny thing, these New Year’s resolutions. We often say they don’t work, but when the new year arrives, you realise there is value in telling yourself there is a new leaf, a new day, a new tomorrow.”

After a challenging year, Alley’s focus is on resilience. “I want to be steadfast, regardless of what lies ahead. It matters that we made it through to the other side.”

Growth without labels

For singer Salome Damon-Johansen, the idea of formal resolutions does not resonate.

“I never have New Year’s resolutions,” she says. “But every year I try to be a better person and change things that didn’t work in the last year.”

Her approach centres on honesty, self-awareness and steady improvement.

Letting go of pressure

Actress Char Carrie is choosing simplicity in 2026.

“I’ve set many New Year’s resolutions over the years, but this time I wanted to keep it simple. I don’t want deadlines and goals that make me feel defeated.”

Her focus is on living more intentionally. Less doom scrolling. More hobbies. More exploring Cape Town. “I want more doing this year,” she says. Her message for the year ahead is clear. “Don’t be afraid to love, and don’t be afraid to live.”

Lessons over resolutions

Media personality Chad Saaiman prefers reflection to rigid goal-setting.

“I don’t do New Year’s resolutions. I focus on lessons learnt and anti-goals. Things I want to do less of.”

For 2026, balance matters most. Time with loved ones. A healthier work rhythm. Fewer distractions.

Family at the centre

Radio host Tyrone Paulsen keeps his intentions close to home.

“My resolutions are to be the best version of myself and to keep spending quality time with my family, doing what we love and making memories.”

A new year, your way

From clear goals to quiet intentions, these voices show that there is no single way to begin a new year. For some, resolutions offer direction. For others, freedom from pressure brings clarity.

What connects them all is choice. The decision to show up differently, more honestly, and on their own terms.