Don't Make Resolutions for the New Year

It all started a few years ago. I was nearing a milestone birthday, and began thinking about what all I had accomplished over the year, and what I still needed to work on. Since my birthday falls around Thanksgiving, it made me think about what was next. Christmas was coming, then New Years. I needed to get started on my resolutions early instead of waiting.

The idea of having a basic plan before diving in, really takes the edge off. It also allows for small changes along the way. It works for me, maybe it will work for you.

Write a basic list. Jot down everything you think of. Go back over the list of resolutions and circle only the top five or so. The less you have on your plate, the more energy you will have to complete them. You can always start on the rest once the main goals are met.

Gather information. If the goal is weight loss, is their a safe and convenient place to start your daily walk? Say you want to pay off a credit card. Do you have something that can be cut out of the budget? Can you work a few extra hours every week?

Gather supplies. For weight loss, purchase a pair of good walking shoes. Straighten off your bill paying area and stock it with plenty of stamped envelopes, so there's no excuse not to send a payment in.

Announce it. This is how you can be accountable. Join an online health forum, or enlist a few close friends for your walking group. Tell someone you trust about your plans to eliminate debt. They will remind you to stay on task. They may even know a way you can earn extra money.

Get started. "It's nothing to it but to do it." That's what they say. But really, the sooner you start, the sooner you finish.