How to Stick to Your New Year's Resolution

Quitting smoking is probably in the top New Year's resolutions each year. This year is my turn to kick the habit. I have been a smoker off and on for ten years. I owe it to myself and my family to quit. I've made a list of 5 things I am going to do to help me stick to my plan but these will work for whatever your resolution may be.

Determination- To first quit smoking, or do anything, you must want it. The only person that can make you quit or do something is yourself. If you don't want it, it's not going to happen. People can ask you and tell you until they are blue in the face but ultimately it is your choice.

Perseverance- You must never think about failing and never give up. The moment you say, "I can't do it," you have failed. Always think positive and tell yourself that you can and will do it no matter what.

Aides- Having an aid to help me quit smoking will do wonders. For around $40 I can get two weeks worth of Nicoderm patches. I'll start off with the Level 1 then wean myself off. I've heard lots of success stories from people using the patches. If you are trying to kick any habit look for products that will help you out.

Replacing the Habit- When people try to kick habits one big mistake people have is not replacing it. Up until I was around 18 I would bite my fingernails. So when I decided I wanted to quit I would file my nails every time I wanted to bite them. Today I am 26 and haven't bitten my fingernails since I was 18. Instead of just trying to kick the habit I replaced it. I will use this same method for smoking. Every time I want a cigarette I will chew some gum, grab a snack or find something else to occupy my hands and mind. This could help for whatever your New Year's resolution is.

Support- Talk to your friends and family for support, they will always listen. Having people tell you they will be there for anything you need will help out. If possible talk to someone that has or is trying to achieve your New Year's resolution. Sometimes there are groups available if you are trying to quit drinking or losing weight. When other people know what you are going through, it helps with the process and they can sometimes offer useful advice.

Any New Year's resolution will be a tough one. After all, you are trying to kick a habit. No matter if you are trying to quit smoking, quit drinking, not shop as much or trying to lose weight the five steps I have mentioned will help, Determination, Perseverance, Aides, Replacing the Habit and having Support. And remember kicking the habit will probably be a lifelong endeavor.