How to Keep your New Year's Resolutions

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By PattiG
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Just a Few Easy Steps can Help you Keep your New Year's Resolutions

The New Year is a wonderful time to set new goals. Yet, keeping New Year's resolutions is easier said than done. Below are a few steps you can take to maximize the odds of achieving your goals for 2009.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Calendar
A Little Will Power

Step 1

Instead of making a laundry list, choose just one or two items that are most important to you. Putting all your energy behind one or two goals is far more effective than attempting to get through a long to-do list. You might consider prioritizing according to health benefits. Losing weight or stopping smoking will, for example, have a far greater impact on your overall health than curtailing your shopping habits.
Step 2

Don't stop with the resolution. The truth is, it is not good enough just to say you are going to do something, no matter what time of year it is. Success with your New Year's resolutions will require a step-by-step plan. It doesn't need to be fancy - but breaking down your goal into smaller, attainable steps will make your resolutions seem much more attainable. If you are trying to lose weight, for example, compiling a list of healthy meal recipes, joining a gym and making healthy choices at restaurants are all smaller steps that will help you reach your goal.
Step 3

Use a Calendar to Keep your New Year's Resolution Commitments

Use the calendar. Adding some structure to your plan will help you stay on track. Schedule gym appointments and early dinner times if you are trying to lose weight. If one of your resolutions is to spend more time with friends or build your network, scheduling get-togethers is a useful and logical strategy.
Step 4

Use Photos and Other Visual Reminders

Add visuals to your plan. Constant reminders can be highly effective tools for keeping you on track. Place a picture of yourself at your target weight on the refrigerator. If you are trying to stop smoking to stay healthy for your family, a family photo in your former cigarette drawer will do.
Step 5

Celebrate your Success with a Bouquet of Fresh Flowers

Measure your progress and reward yourself with "positive" treats. For example, you might treat yourself to a bouquet of fresh flowers for every five pounds you lose. But don't indulge in that chocolate bar if it's going to encourage old behaviors. Celebrating small successes will motivate you to stick to your plan.