The word resolution comes from the Latin resolutio, meaning "a lossening or releasing" derived from the Latin verb resolvere (to unbind, loosen, or dissolve).  It entered Middle English in the 1400s it originally meaning the reduction of things into simpler parts or the dissolving of a solid.  in the 1500s it shifted to mean "untangling" or solving a difficult question, conflict, or mathematical problem.  In the 1600s it evolved to mean a settled mental state or firmness of purpose (being "resolute").  In the 1780s it was first recorded use of making a firm personal promise or goal for the new year.  In the 1800s it began to be applied to lenses and images, representing how clearly an optical system can separate fine details into distinct points.  

According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the noun resolution was first used in English during the Middle English Period (1150-1500).  The earliest recorded evidence of the word dates from before 1398, found in a translation by the writer and translator John Trevisa.   The  adjective resolute was first used in English during the Middle English period as an adjective, with the earliest recorded evidence dating from before 1425 in a translation of Guy de Chauliac’s medical text Grande Chirurgie.   The earliest known use of the adverb resolutely is from 1540 in the writings of the poet and ambassador Thomas Wyatt.  

23 minutes ago, drpaladin said:

Each New Year spawns countless failed resolutions.

Been there, done that, still do. Sort of reminds me of, 'Groundhog Day'. 

Just the facts:

RESOLUTION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

RESOLUTION Synonyms: 98 Similar and Opposite Words | Merriam-Webster Thesaurus

RESOLVE Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

RESOLVE Synonyms: 216 Similar and Opposite Words | Merriam-Webster Thesaurus

A resolution is the final part of a story where the main conflict ends, questions get answered, and characters adjust to a new normal. It matters because it gives readers emotional closure, reveals the deeper meaning of the plot, and turns a random sequence of events into a memorable experience.   

Why Resolution Matters:  
Emotional Payoff: Rewards the audience for caring about the characters and following their struggles.  
Ties Up Loose Ends: Answers lingering questions and finishes minor subplots.  
Shows Growth: Highlights how much the main character changed during their journey.  
Delivers the Theme: Clarifies the core message or lesson the author wants to share. 

Types of Endings:  
Closed: All questions answered, leaving a clear and complete picture.  
Open: Some details left blank so the audience can think and wonder.  
Bittersweet: The goal is met, but at a high or painful cost.  

46 minutes ago, drpaladin said:

Each New Year spawns countless failed resolutions.

16 minutes ago, drpaladin said:

I stopped years ago.

Yes years ago my resolution was to stop making resolutions. It didn't fail.