Whether you’ve written them down or just spoke them aloud, you made some sort of commitment to change over the coming year.  Some of us make big changes while others resolve to make very small ones, but either way you need to find the best way to start and KEEP your new year’s resolution. 

Despite our best intentions, over 90% of us will fail to keep our resolutions.  Some of us fail to create realistic goals but most of us don’t properly plan the steps we need to take to actually achieve them.  Here are a few suggestions that will help you keep your new year’s resolution:

1. WRITE IT DOWN!  As silly as this may seem, experts in various fields have shown that people are more likely to accomplish their goals if they write them down.  Writing down your resolutions will not only help you solidify and clarify your goals but also act on your subconscious to put you in a position that actually helps you accomplish these goals.
2. Take Small Steps – Change, especially big change and ambitious goals, are more likely achieved through small changes in routine.  Don’t tell yourself you’ll run six miles every day by February if you’ve never run one in your life.  This sets you up for disappointment that will lead to lack of motivation to try again.  Set small goals to be reached every day or every week.  For example, say you’ll walk for 20 to 30 minutes every other day and set goals to walk a little more every week or maybe even start jogging part of the path.
3. Allow for Changes – There will be times and circumstances when you won’t be able to meet your daily or weekly goals due to scheduling or circumstances beyond your control.  Life can be unpredictable but don’t let it get in the way of your ultimate goals.  Keep the big picture in mind and reset your routine the following week.  Sometimes job or health issues take large tolls on goals, but realize you can adjust your goals to adapt to these changes.  For example, if you wanted to work towards a promotion but the company downsized, rewrite your goals to find that same position at a new company.  Or if health problems sabotage your marathon goals, find another exercise that keeps you in shape. 
4. Be Accountable to Someone – We’re all more likely to complete a task if we are accountable to someone other than ourselves.  By partnering with someone to achieve common goals you’ll be less likely to procrastinate or find excuses to delay action.  Weekly meetings are great for those looking for career goals while exercise buddies can meet four or five times a week.
5. Set a Routine – Do something every day that works towards your goal.  This is especially important for exercise and fitness goals that require regular maintenance.  Start small and make it easy to fit into your schedule.  Walk for ten minutes when you get home from work or make a point to visit the track at lunch for fifteen minutes.  The more flexible you are with your small goals, the more likely you’ll be to fit them into your regular schedule.  Once you repeat the activity at the same time on a regular basis, you’ll end up achieving your goals as easily as you brush your teeth.

Resolutions should never be lost.  These are promises you make to yourself and the world around you.  Take the steps needed to keep these resolutions and create the best year for you!