Chances are, at some time in your life, you’ve made a New Year’s resolution and then broken it. This year, stop the cycle of resolving to make change but not following through. Here are some tips to help get you started.

Be realistic
The surest way to fall short of your goal is to make your goal unattainable. Strive for a goal that is attainable, such as avoiding something more often than you do now.

Outline your plan
Decide how you will deal with the temptation to skip that exercise class or have one more cigarette. This could include calling on a friend for help, practicing positive thinking and self-talk, or reminding yourself how your bad habit affects you.

Make a pro and con list
It may help to see a list of items on paper to keep your motivation strong. Develop this list over time, and ask others to contribute to it. Keep your list with you and refer to it when you need help keeping your resolve.

Talk about it
Don’t keep your resolution a secret. Tell friends and family members who will be there to support your resolve to change yourself for the better or improve your health. The best case scenario is to find yourself a buddy who shares your New Year's resolution and motivate one another.

Reward yourself
Celebrate your success by treating yourself to something that you enjoy that does not contradict your resolution. If you’ve been sticking to your promise to eat better, for example, perhaps your reward could be going to a movie with a friend.

Track your progress
Keep track of each small success you make toward reaching your larger goal. Short-term goals are easier to keep, and small accomplishments will help keep you motivated. Instead of focusing on losing 30lbs, say, focus on losing that first five. Keeping a food diary or a symptom journal may help you stay on track.

Don't beat yourself up
Obsessing over the occasional slip won’t help you achieve your goal. Do the best you can each day, and take it one day at a time.

Stick to it
Experts say it takes about 21 days for a new activity, such as exercising, to become a habit, and six months for it to become part of your personality.

Keep trying
If your resolution has totally run out of steam by mid-February, do not despair. Start over again! There’s no reason you cannot make a New Year’s resolution at any time of year.   WH