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 a change and not following through. If your resolution is to take better care of yourself and get healthy, you will have a much better year if your resolution sticks. Below are some tips to help: 

1.  Be Realistic

The surest way to fall short of your goal is to make your goal unattainable. For instance, resolving to NEVER eat your favorite food again sets you up to fail. Instead, strive for a goal that is attainable, such as avoiding it more often than you do now.

2.  Outline Your Plan 

Decide how you will deal with the temptation to skip that exercise class or have that piece of cake. This could include calling on a friend for help, practicing positive thinking and self-talk, or reminding yourself how your behavior will affect your goal.

3.  Make a "pros" and "cons" 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.

4.  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 a buddy who shares your New Year’s resolution and motivate each other.

5.  Reward Yourself

This doesn’t mean that you can eat an entire box of chocolates if your resolution is to eat a better diet. Instead, celebrate your success by treating yourself to something you enjoy that doesn’t contradict your resolution. 

6.  Track Your Progress

Short-term goals are easier to keep, and each small accomplishment will help keep you motivated. Instead of thinking about losing 30 pounds, focus on losing the first five. 

7.  Stick To It

Experts say it takes about 21 days for a new activity to become a  habit and six months to become part of your personality. It won’t happen overnight, so be persistent and patient!

8. Don't Give Up 

If you have run out of steam when it comes to keeping your resolution by mid-February, don’t despair. Start over again! Recommit yourself for 24 hours. The 24-hour increments will soon build on each other, and before you know it, you will be back on track.

This is part of our Wellness Wednesday feature. If you have an idea for a topic, please email us at Elements@nfta.com.