It's about one week into 2018. Every single resolution you have made remains untouched and stored in the deepest part of your brain. You can't help but sulk and continue doing exactly what has kept you stuck. Why?

Everyone knows New Year's resolutions are easier said than done. Whether it's to hit the gym more, eat healthier, travel the world, or expand your business, some of these things exist on levels we struggle to reach.

However, if there's anything I have learned in my several attempted (and failed) resolutions, it's that there are ways to actually accomplish some of the goals you may have. But, over those years, I have also learned the biggest reasons people fail to reach their New Year's resolutions.

1. Out of sight, out of mind.

One of the most important things about achieving goals is remembering them at all. Thousands of things go through our heads each day, so yeah you may be thinking about badly you need to squeeze in a workout, but the chances you'll forget are too high. Write it down. Studies have shown that writing it down increases the chances you'll remember to do it.

2. Excuses.

"There's 6 inches of snow on the ground." "It's 15 degrees outside, no way!" Two very common (I'm sure) excuses being used in my local town in New Jersey at the moment. Yes, it's bricks outside. But, after writing down your goals or resolutions for the year, stop making excuses! The harder you work towards reaching these goals, the more satisfaction will come out of achieving them. Three months from now you'll be glad you paused "Gossip Girl" to headed to the gym to work out.

3. Be realistic.

There are some people who dream big. "This year, I want to travel all around Europe and attend Coachella." That is a big dream. But, that is also a big expense. If you can afford all of it, then go for it! If not, start small. This isn't me telling you to give up on your dreams, but to make them a little more realistic. This way they can actually be reached, even if it is in baby steps.

4. Set deadlines.

Along with writing down your goals or dreams, try estimating a deadline. Breaking it up into chunks encourages determination to work hard in a certain amount of time.

5. Consistency is key.

There are no shortcuts to anything in life. If you want to achieve anything fully and successfully consistency is the secret.

When the road gets rocky and you feel like quitting, don't. Moments like those are most important in pursuing goals. Again, you'll look bad a year from now and be glad you stuck it out. It's all worth it, promise.