Ladies and gentlemen, it’s that time of year again. The time when we naively imagine the arrival of the New Year is going to motivate us more and help up reinvent ourselves. Traditionally the New Year is a time where we need to start a new phase in our life. The ironic thing is, that this might not be the best time to start new habits because this is when you’re the most stressed. Most American’s who make New Year resolutions don’t end up reaching their end goal.

If you haven’t made your new resolutions just yet, that’s okay. These tips are a guide to helping you make your resolutions and most importantly, stick to them.

1. One or Two resolutions at max!

Changing your lifestyle and habits isn’t an easy thing to do. If you plan on doing so, don’t try to change your whole life at once. Try to focus on one major part of your life and focus on that goal first. You want to make it something concrete and attainable, if you’re successful with this first change then you can add another resolution within a month or two. If you are successful at making small changes throughout the year, you actually may still be a whole new you at the end of 2017!

2. Planning

Planning ahead of time is extremely important. You should research the change that you are trying to make this new year and plan ahead. Make sure that you have all the resources available as well. You can read up on that certain topic that will help you prepare, for example, if you want to become vegan.

You should also remember to plan for success. Have all the tools you need, so when the time to do it comes, you have no excuses.

3. Start date

Just because it’s New Years Day, it doesn’t mean you have to make all these changes on this exact date. It is recommended that you pick a day that you know you’ll be well rested, excited and surrounded by positive vibes. If picking a date is a little too much for you, then just wait until your body and soul are ready. You’ll know when.

4. Big Day is here!

When the big day comes make sure you go for it 110% one thing that I read online is to make a commitment and write it down on a notecard. Just a small phrase that you can put in your vanity or carry in your wallet, in your car, by your nightstand. This will just give you that extra reinforcement.

5. Reward yourself!

With success comes failure, if you mess up your new routine, that’s okay. Just remind yourself of your goal and make a note of what triggers you. Just keep it moving!

When you continue with your plan it’s a great idea to reward yourself. Small rewards are a great way to encourages yourself during this process, especially on your hardest days. It can start off weekly and then switch it up to once a month or so. Like that, you will look forward to this reward and you will want to work hard for it.

With that being said, I wish everyone the best of luck with their New Year resolutions! Decide what is it that you want to do this 2017, plan how you’re going to achieve it and just go for it!