With 2011 rapidly approaching, it is time to start thinking about resolutions for the New Year. Hopefully we can move on to new resolutions after a successful 2010, but chances are that at least one of our goals slipped by us this past year. Whether you’re going to take another crack at old resolutions or want to set some new ones, here are some tips that will help you keep them in 2011.

1) Make Them Achievable:

It will be difficult to keep a resolution if it seems overwhelming. Make sure that each resolution is realistic and that you aren’t attempting to tackle too many. It is also helpful to set smaller, more measurable goals that will lead to keeping your resolution by the end of the year. If you want to lose fifty pounds, for example, plan to lose five pounds by the end of January. You may even set daily goals that will lead to these types of monthly goals. If you wait until December to chart your progress, it is unlikely you will have kept that resolution.

2) Write Them Down

As soon as you’ve decided on some achievable New Year’s resolutions, it is helpful to write them down or type them out. Writing them down helps confirm your commitment. Moving your goals from your mind to the paper is moving one step closer to achieving them and as the adage says, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”

3) Post Reminders

You will certainly have plenty of distractions over the next 365 days so it is helpful to post reminders. Post your resolution or resolutions in places that you will see everyday like the corner of your bathroom mirror or on your refrigerator. If you use a day planner or keep a journal, you can jot down reminders in those as well. The easiest way to fail in keeping your resolutions is to forget that you planned on keeping them in the first place. It can also be helpful to share your resolutions with your spouse, siblings, or roommate and ask that they share theirs with you. The occasional verbal reminder is extremely helpful.
Goal setting is an essential part of productive and happy living and no time seems more natural to set resolutions than the beginning of a New Year. Use these tips to make sure you don’t find yourself with the same set of resolutions at the end of 2011.

What is your resolution for the New Year?

Diane Johnson writes about a number of her interests including Pell Grants for College, four wheeling, shopping, and celebrating holidays.

(Photo by ahisgett)