by Kenda Robertson

Created on: January 07, 2011   Last Updated: January 16, 2011

As the New Year begins, millions of people across the globe vow to make changes to better their lives through New Year’s resolutions. But, according to statistics, the majority of these people will not reach their goals and will likely be making the same resolutions this time next year.

Does the failure to complete a resolution show a lack of willpower? Or are some people going about it all wrong? By putting tough restrictions and expectations on themselves, many people may be heading down the path to resolution failure.

So before you give up on losing weight, getting in shape, quitting smoking or whatever else your heart desires, here are four New Year's resolutions that could help keep you on the path to achieving your goals and more:

Like Yourself.

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”

When people genuinely like what lies within them, they are more likely to eat healthier more nutritious foods, and not stuff themselves with junk food to feed bad feelings. They will exercise to keep themselves fitter and won’t need to spend money to buy happiness. They will also have better relationships and usually make more money. Not every woman is or wants to be a size 2, and not every man can look like George Clooney, but everyone can be their best.

In the book, “How to be Your Own Best Friend,” co-authors and psychologists Mildred Newman, Bernard Berkowitz and Jean Owen write: “The source is not outside us; it is within. Most of us haven't begun to tap our own potential; we're operating way below capacity. And we’ll continue to as long as we are looking for someone to give us the key to the kingdom. We must realize that the kingdom is in us; we already have the key.”

Take Time for You.

The instructions for using an airplane’s emergency oxygen mask call for the adult to place the mask over his or her mouth before placing it over the child’s. The airline knows that if the adult isn’t safe then the child may not be safe either. By the same token, if people are emotionally and physically rundown, then they won’t have the energy or patience to be available for loved ones.

It may seem selfish for people to think of putting themselves first, but everyone needs “me” time. And most people find that everyone involved will be happier for it.

 Say “Yes” More Often.

In the movie “Yes

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