Setting New Year's resolutions—and sticking to them!

How many times have you eagerly set a New Year’s resolution only to let it slip away as the year progressed?

We’re all guilty of this. But this year, it’s time to find a new way to stick to your goals. Here are a few tips on how to make New Year’s resolutions you can actually accomplish.

1. Start small

A new year doesn’t have to mean a “new you.” Resolutions are simply meant to be small life improvements. Set yourself up for success and create resolutions that are within reach. For instance, if you want a cleaner diet, don’t say you’re swearing off junk food completely. Instead, decide to eat one healthy meal everyday—you can work your way up from there.

2. Be specific

If your resolution is too generic, you won’t know where to start. Set parameters for your goals that will help you along the way. If you’re trying to work out more often, don’t just leave it at that—create a schedule of when you will go into the gym and for how long. Then, your resolution will be measurable and you can track your progress!

3. Share your resolutions

Nobody said you had to do this alone. It’s okay to lean on a support system. If your friends and family know you’re trying to cut out junk food, they’re going to call you out for that fast food bag in your car or maybe even join you for a healthy dinner! The people around you can provide the encouragement and support you need to reach that goal.

4. Map it out

Don’t make a life change without a plan! Before you dive into those resolutions, figure out your best path to success. What will you do first? Also, think about possible complications that may arise and how you would solve them. Anticipating roadblocks makes them easier to overcome.

5. Cut yourself some slack

Nobody is perfect! If you slip up one day or even for a couple, don’t beat yourself up over it. Instead, try to pinpoint what triggered your setback so you know what to do next time. There’s no shame in messing up—the road to success isn’t easy!