How to Keep Your 2010 New Year's Resolution

Once a year, there is a magical day that is the beginning of a new chapter. Once a year, people set goals and make plans to become better. Once a year, people set themselves up to fail. New Year's resolutions are a wonderful tradition, but so many people don't ever accomplish them. Does this sound like you? This year, take the things you will learn in this article and finally get something done. Here are five essential steps to accomplishing your New Year's resolutions.

1. Don't stretch yourself too thin.

"I want to learn to kayak, lose 30 pounds, read 40 books, paint and sell an artpiece, take a yoga class, get married, stay organized, learn to play softball, start a small business, remodel the house, and stay sane..."
People like to plan big, set big goals, and try for great things. That's what makes humanity great! It's when we strive for great things that we become great people. The problem we frequently have though, is we tend to try for too many great things. A great man who had achieved some considerable status in the business community told me this key to greatness. "Don't stretch yourself too thin." If you have one or two great goals, it's much easier to focus on them. Also, make sure your goals are reachable, and something you actually have a desire to achieve.

2. Write it down.

"Dear Diary..."

Here's an exercise for you. Think back to the week before last. Think about that Tuesday. What was your main concern that day? What were you excited about? What did you eat? If you can't remember don't worry, you're human. Write your resolutions down so you will remember them. Write them in a prominent place, where you'll see them often. Keep a journal to track your progress.

3. Plan it out.

"Step one, go. Step two, see. Step three, conquer."

Making a plan sometimes intimidates people, but it's actually much easier than you think. Take my goal for example: I want to lose 15 pounds this year. Easier said than done, especially after the holiday season (I have an addiction to eggnog). How am I going to accomplish this goal? I'm going to take a basketball class, I'm going to go running with my significant other, and I'm going to lift weights. I need to make a plan to eat healthy foods. I'm going to eat big lunches and small dinners. That's how you make a plan. You simply write down your goal and asking yourself "How am I going to get that done?

4. Let it occupy your mind.

"Penny for your thoughts..."

Everyone has heard the old adage 'Thoughts lead to action.' How am I going to lose weight? If I'm constantly thinking and wanting to lose 15 pounds, when I drive by the local burger joint, I'll have a good excuse not to stop in. It'll remind me to go to the gym, and to take the stairs instead of the elevator. Write your goal down frequently in your journal, post it in places you'll frequently see it. Think about it in your free time.

5. Do it.

"Oh just get on with it!"

If you have free time, work on your goal. If you don't want to, just start, it's the hardest part of doing anything. I will promise you one thing: If you never accomplish your goal, you will never accomplish your goal. You have to sit down, and make yourself do it. Remember, starting is the hardest part. I can promise you if you do the five things on this list, and not let anything stand in your way, you will accomplish your goals. Set a couple goals, write them down in a journal, make plans, think about it, and do it. Then watch your resolutions become reality.