We have all had years that we decide are going to be “the year.” The year that you get a new job. The year that you get in shape. The year that you save more money. The list goes on. Well this year is actually going to be “that year” that you conquer your resolutions and maybe even one up them and surprise yourself. There are plenty of ways that you can set yourself up for success with your resolutions this year; here are a few that you should use to ensure your success.

1. Be Realistic
   • While it is easy to set goals, it is much harder to reach them. With the excitement of the new year, people often set goals that are out of reach. When your goals are out of reach, it is a lot easier to get disheartened or down about your progress, which often leads to giving up. Keep your goals attainable and realistic, make a plan or schedule that you can deal with even on the hectic weeks. Being realistic with your goals sets you up for success.
2. Write it Down
   • When you first put your resolutions or goals on paper, you turn those ideas into something tangible. Keep the goals written down in places where you will see them regularly. The more you see them, the more you think about the resolution and the stronger it becomes in your mind. Keeping a written record of your progress helps to remind you of all the work you have put in and will drive you to stick with it.
3. Make it Measurable
   • You need to make your goals or resolutions measurable in some way. If you can’t measure something, it is impossible to track the progress. Try to include minor checkpoints or mini-goals to encourage you and keep you going throughout the process. Being able to see the numbers of your success and hit those mini-goals can really boost your confidence!
4. Keep Visual Reminders
   • Now that you have written down your goals and are tracking them, use something to create visual cues throughout your day that remind you of your goal or your progress. Utilize an item of clothing you want to fit into or a picture of your younger, healthier self to keep the thought in your mind and to give you some inspiration. Keep the items somewhere you see daily to keep reminding you of your goals and progress.
5. Make the Investment
   • If you really want to shed the pounds or get healthier, now may be the time to go ahead and get the gear. Set yourself up for success by getting a new pair of running shoes with good soles or maybe a couple of outfits for the gym. Having the right gear can help you jump right into your new year’s fitness plan and stick with it. The fact that you spent some extra money on your gear may also help to keep you from skipping your workout!
6. Get inspired
   • Find yourself a way to get inspired to continue your process of tackling your goals. Utilize your record tracking and your visual reminders or maybe find a goal-related newsletter that can show you success stories or inspirational advice to keep you going day after day.
7. Make a Routine
   • If you are starting a new activity like running or exercise as part of your resolution, it is important that you make time for it. If you don’t set up a schedule that works for you, your goals are not going to be met. Wake up 30 minutes earlier to get a quick workout in before work or throw your gym bag in the car on your ride in so that you can stop by the gym after work. Whatever you do, make your activity part of your daily routine to ensure consistency.
8. Get Others Involved
   • Support makes a big difference in achieving your goals. Try to get your significant other, child or roommate to set similar goals and work together to achieve them. Research has shown that people who have support are the most successful at diet and exercise programs. You are much more likely to show up and stick with weekly workouts if someone else is counting on you!
9. Focus on One Step at a Time
   • This ties in with a couple of earlier tips; make sure you focus on the little victories. By tracking your progress and recognizing that you are hitting your mini-goals, you give yourself confidence to keep going. If you hit a plateau with weight loss, don’t get discouraged! Reevaluate your routine and see what you can do hit your next mini-goal.
10. Reward Yourself
    • With all the hard work you put into achieving your goals, make sure that you reward yourself. Once you hit your first mini-goal, treat yourself to something that reminds you of your success. Maybe some new slimmer clothes or some new workout gear that reinforces your hard work and drives you to your next goal!

By following these tips, you can significantly help your chances of dominating your New Year’s resolutions in 2017, good luck!!!!!