How to Stick to Your New Year's Resolution

This time of year is exciting for most because we can "start new." We have finally made it through the holidays, and we are looking forward to a New Year of wonderful possibilities. Some of the most popular resolutions are to exercise more, lose weight, stop smoking, cut down on alcohol, eat a healthier diet and make new friends.

Once the New Year hits we get motivated and ready mentally to begin whatever goal we have sought out to accomplish. What happens after a couple of weeks or months? Life starts to get in the way and we tend to revert back to old habits and these are the old habits we are trying to change. So how do we make these New Year's resolutions a permanent change that will stick with us for a lifetime?

There are a couple of things to keep in mind when you are trying to stick to a New Year's resolution. Remember that most New Year's resolutions have to do with behavioral change and this can be hard to make permanent but is very doable if you can follow a couple of these simple steps.

Step 1:
Be realistic with your goals. Set goals that you can accomplish and attain.

Step 2:
Pick one goal you want to work on. Having to many resolutions can be hard to accomplish especially if they are big goals. Give some thought to something that you really want to change and have been thinking about for a while. By having one goal you are passionate about you will be more likely to stick to it.

Step 3:
Have a plan set out so you can be prepared for when you run into temptations or fall back into old habits. For example, change your self talk, call a friend or loved one that supports you in your goal and remind yourself why you are doing what you are doing.

Step 4:
Write out your goal on paper. Put this on your fridge, bathroom mirror or wherever you will see it consistently. You need to remind yourself of what you want out of this goal.

Step 5:
Don't keep your New Year's resolution a secret. Share it with friends and loved ones who will support you in this change you strive to make.

Step 6:
Find joy in the small success you make. Small steps are how you will reach your goals and be successful. Take a moment to give yourself a pat on the back for the little accomplishments.

Step 7:
Make small goals within the main goal. By doing this you can track your progress and know you are moving closer and closer to the goal.

Step 8:
We are all human and you may fall short once in a while. This is okay, don't throw your arms up in the air and give up after one short-coming. Get back on the band wagon and keep moving forward.

Step 9:
Experts say that after 21 days, an activity becomes a habit and after 6 months an activity will become part of your lifestyle, so stick to it and be consistent!

Step 10:
Don't give up on your goal. If you are struggling with it, give yourself a bit of time and set another date to start back up again. Give it another chance!

We all make New Year's resolutions to better our lives and the world around us. If we can all stick to our New Year's resolutions and make them a part of our lives rather then something temporary, our world will become healthier, less polluted, friendlier and overall a happier place to live!

Happy New Year everyone!