It's the start of the New Year, which means people everywhere are setting goals for themselves in the hopes of creating a "new me" with the turn of the new year.
Some people keep their resolutions and end up enjoying their results, while others abandon their resolution after a few weeks or months. If you really want to change something and commit to it, it's going to take a little bit more than just thinking you're going to make a change.
Whether your resolution is to be healthier, lose weight, stop procrastinating, make better grades, find a job, or be kinder, each resolution can be kept with the same fundamentals.
Have someone to hold you accountable. It can be a family member, significant other, teacher or mentor, or best friend. Having someone to remind you of the goal you want to reach will make you much more likely to keep pursuing that goal. Let them encourage you and remind you every day of what you want to change, so you'll feel more obligated to stay true to your goal.
Write it down. Write your goal down on sticky notes and place them everywhere- your nightstand, bathroom mirror, desk, in your car- so you're constantly being reminded of what you want to pursue. Even if it's in your planner, pick a few days in the planner to write out what your goal is so you see it each week. Set reminders in your phone about all you need to do to reach the goal.
Record your progress. If you keep track of the progress you've made, you will love seeing the results and progress, and want nothing but to keep on improving and seeing more results. Nothing is better than seeing results.
Treat yourself. As you set goals and reach them, reward yourself for your hard work. It doesn't have to be anything too extravagant or out there, but buying a small something you've always wanted or treating to yourself to your favorite dessert will keep you sane.
Let the progress you make with your goals inspire you to keep pushing and keep going. Don't let this year be another year of "I tried" or "It didn't work out". Let this year be different, and be the change you want to see this year.