1. Pick one resolution and stick with it.

I know the saying is, "new year, new me," but you do not need to alter several aspects of your life to see change. In fact, you will have a better chance of making your resolution a permanent change if you incorporate it into your usual routine.

2. Don't aim too high.

It's okay to be ambitious, as long as your goal is realistic. Life is hard to predict, so pick something that you know you can handle and stick to.

3. Give yourself some room for error.

A lot of people approach resolutions as all or nothing and then when they make a mistake (like cheating on their diet or skipping out on going to the gym for a day), they throw in the towel. You're not perfect. You will have off days. But that doesn't mean you can't keep going and make a positive change in your life.

4. Know that it will take about two months before something new feels normal.

It takes exactly 66 days for a new behavior to become automatic. So if your resolution can make it to April, it will have a much better chance of becoming a long-lasting change.

5. Get a buddy.

Accountability is a huge motivator. And trying something new with a friend can be a lot easier and a lot more fun than going it alone.

6. Break up one big goal into several small goals.

Setting milestones for your goal can make it feel a lot more doable. For example, instead of focusing on losing 30 pounds in a year, focus on losing 3 pounds per month, and be proud of yourself when you hit those marks.

7. Don't forget to love yourself.

Everyone has something they can improve upon, but wanting to improve and hating yourself are two very different things. Resolutions should be about changing something because you want to, not because you have to.

8. Don't pick a resolution that makes you miserable.

It's great to pick a resolution that is challenging, but you should also still be able to have fun. You'll maintain your goal better when you're able to enjoy the process.

Here's hoping that 2017 is a better year for all of us!