It’s that time of year when everyone resolves to make some changes. But if you shoot too high or try to go it alone, you just may be creating a set-up for yourself. Take a look at some strategies that may help to make this year’s resolutions a reality.

1. Keep your resolution realistic. If you aim too high you are setting yourself up for failure. Instead of the 25 pounds you want to lose, start with a realistic 5 or 10. Likewise, try to make only one resolution. Overloading yourself with goals can be overwhelming and then it will be difficult to be able to meet one goal.
2. Give yourself a reward. As you hit little milestones along the way to your goal, reward yourself frequently. If you have resolved not to spend as much money and you resist something you really want, treat yourself to something special like a great cup of cappuccino or time spent with friends. 

3. Don’t try to quit everything at once. If you resolve not to eat any junk food, it will only end up with your binging and feeling guilty. Set a more realistic goal like not eating a specific junk food and build from there.
4. Tell your support system about your resolution. The more people you have cheering you on, the greater your chances of achieving your goal.
5. Wait until spring to start your resolution. When I received a gift certificate to Curves a couple years ago, I knew it would be difficult enough to start a new routine of exercise, much less in the cold dark days of winter. Once the weather changed and the days were sunny, it was much easier to begin to make my changes with the start of a new season.