How many of you have made resolutions? Or have you made a
resolution not to make any more resolutions?

Did you know that only 1 in 4 resolutions actually is kept after 6 months?! This is because people make too big of goals and it sets them upto fail. Goals need to be kept small enough to achieve. You should also reward yourself with something with each little step. This does not mean a box of chocolates after losing 5 pounds or a pack of cigarettes after not smoking for a week.

Another key factor is to let those closest to you know what your goal/resolution is. This way they can help you. If they don't know you are on a diet, they might offer you all kinds of goodies.

One great thing about friends is you can help each other, if you have the same goals. Your goal buddy can call you to check on your progress or offer encouragement. Your goal buddy can go work out with you.

Make sure for the first few weeks to stay away from places and/or people that might make you fall. If you are trying to quit smoking, you will want to try to stay away from others that smoke.

What do we have to do to make a resolution that will work?
1. Figure out what realistic goal you want to achieve.
2. Set up the steps that you are going to take to achieve the goal.
3. Set up rewards for each step successfully achieved.
4. Make sure to let everyone know about your resolution/goal.
5. Start the program.
6. Assess after each step.

If you have a setback, do not give up. Start right back into the program. Evaluate your steps and make sure they are not to big of steps i.e. I will run 30 minutes every day probably won't work as the first step.

Good luck on your resolutions! :)
Sherry Lochner

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sherry is the WAHM (Working At Home Mother) of 2 beautiful kids, military, and owner of HeavenlySweets.com