If you are like most people, you probably make a New Year’s resolution every year and then fall off the bandwagon only a couple weeks into the new year. While most of us start off the new year with the best of intentions, the reality is that the majority of people fail to stick to their New Year’s resolutions. If you want to avoid being one of these people, you should keep these tips for making New Year’s resolution in mind.

Tips for Making New Year’s Resolutions Work #1: Remain Focused

One of the most important steps you can take toward making a New Year’s resolution that works is to focus on making just one change at a time. If you try to take on too many changes all at once, you are likely to feel frustrated and overwhelmed. By focusing on just one New Year’s resolution at a time, on the other hand, you will be less likely to become overwhelmed and will be more likely to find success.

Tips for Making New Year’s Resolutions Works #2: Create Smaller Goals

Creating smaller goals to help you achieve your New Year’s resolution is another way to ensure your success. By breaking a larger task into several smaller steps, you are less likely to feel overwhelmed. In addition, by taking a moment to celebrate each of the goals you achieve, you will be more likely to stick with your plan to achieve your larger goal.

Tips for Making New Year’s Resolutions Work #3: Build a Network

By creating a network of people to provide you with support in achieving your New Year’s resolution, you will be more likely to stick with your plan. Furthermore, by telling more people about your New Year’s resolution, you will be accountable to these people. If you make New Year’s resolution to lose weight, for example, it will be harder to skip out on your exercise plan if you have people encouraging you to stick to it. Besides, if you know someone is keeping an eye on you and your progress, it becomes more difficult to cheat.

Tips for Making New Year’s Resolutions Work #4: Don’t Let Obstacles Stand in the Way

After making a New Year’s resolution, it is also important to avoid taking on an “All or nothing” attitude. Remember, you will run across some roadblocks along the way toward achieving your New Year’s resolution. Just because you experience some setbacks along the way, it doesn’t mean reaching your goals is impossible. Rather, it just means you need to take a moment to regroup so you can get back on track.

Tips for Making New Year’s Resolutions Work #5: Create Specific Goals

Finally, you will be more likely to achieve your New Year’s resolution if you create resolutions that are specific. Rather than creating a New Year’s resolution to lose weight, for example, you should set a specific weight loss goal. By creating specific goals, you will be better able to remain focused while also creating attainable goals.