Resolutions Done Right: 5 Real Tips That'll Help You Achieve Your New Year Goals by Cindy Cooke, DNP, FNP-C, FAANP

If you kicked off the new year excited to make self-improvements but already your enthusiasm is waning, join the club. Every year, resolutions on average last until about the middle of February before 80 percent of us ditch them and settle back into the same old unhealthy ways. Change is hard, but your new year’s resolutions don’t have to be. Here’s how to do them right:

• Start small. Don’t try to fix everything at once. Set yourself up for success with one or two realistic goals at a time.

• Be specific. Want to lose weight? Give yourself something concrete to work with, like ditching soda or running 20 minutes every day before work.

• Write it down. Make a contract with yourself, post it where you can see it and write down incremental accomplishments to help stay motivated.

• Be flexible. Falling short one day doesn’t mean you’ve blown the whole year. Cut yourself some slack, so long as you are still working to the end goal.

• Find support. Resolutions are more fun when you do them with others. Find a buddy with the same goal, attack it together and share in the joy of success (so long as you don’t undo a year’s worth of hard work!).

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community. Inspire and be inspired.