by Cyndi Li

Created on: January 03, 2009   Last Updated: January 05, 2009

Sticking to a New Years resolution isn't always as easy as we think it is. Try as we may, self-discipline alone rarely gets us through the first month, let alone the whole year. Don't give up; there's still hope. Here are a few ideas that may help you keep your New Years resolution.

1. Set reachable goals- Unrealistic resolutions are probably the number one reason resolutions are broken. If your goal is to make seventy-five thousand dollars in the coming year, but you have no intentions of leaving your current twenty-five thousand dollar a year job, the chance of you finding a way to make and additional fifty-thousand dollars is slim to none. Set goals for the coming year that are both reasonable and reachable.

2. Be specific- Instead of saying I want to lose weight, set a specific amount to lose. Once you've reached your goal, add to it if you aren't satisfied.

3. Ask for support- Leaning on your friends or family for support and encouragement may help you to stick to your resolution. They can help keep you focused on your goal by offering emotional, and in some cases hands-on, support.

4. Set reminders in place- Trying to lose weight? Tack a resolution-reminder note up on the door of the cupboard where all the munchies are stashed. This will help you to focus of the end result instead of the in-the-moment craving. Tack a picture of a person who is at the weight you want to be at on your refrigerator. Hang up a pair of pants you want to fit into in the house somewhere; each time you see them you'll be reminded, and inspired, to stick to your resolution.

Have you resolved to clean up your not-so-colorful language? Wear a special bracelet to remind you of your resolution. Place a dime in a money jar each time you slip up. Leave the jar in plain sight to remind you of what you're trying to accomplish. (No, you can't keep the money; that would defeat the purpose of the jar)

5. Stay away from temptation- If your goal is to lose weight; don't fill the house up with sweet snacks. If you've sworn off drinking (For whatever reason) you shouldn't be perched on a barstool or stopping by the package store on your way home from work.

6. One goal at a time please- Setting multiple goals can become overwhelming. When this happens you may stumble and fumble with one of them, end up breaking that resolution, and then give up on all of them. Make one resolution and follow it through. (I'll let you in on a little secret; you can set another goal after you reach the first one. You don't have to wait till New Years rolls around again. Neat huh?)

7. Don't get discouraged- We all suffer setbacks now and then; New Years resolution or not. Don't get down on yourself and throw in the towel. Jump back up in the saddle and keep trying.

And, always remember; Rome wasn't built in a day!

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