Set a reasonable goal.

Most people start the New Year planning out goals that are unrealistic. Do you really have time to lose seventy pounds this year, or is it more reasonable to lose twenty? Our lifestyles don’t necessarily change simply because the year does. Completing your goal requires time and effort outside of your normal lifestyle. Start small and change your goal as you go along to fit your needs.

Make it a habit.

Maybe your goal is to study more this semester. Reaching that goal means work. Set a schedule and stick to it. This helps you keep your goal a priority and gets you used to doing the work required.

Don’t sweat the small stuff.

You are going to have obstacles in your way. Things aren’t always going to be easy. Say your goal was to lose ten pounds in three months, but you only lose six despite all of the hard work you’ve been putting in. Don’t be discouraged, you’ve made progress and put in the work to get this far. Look for flaws in your routine and adjust them so you can meet your goal next time.

Reward yourself.

When you reach your milestones, treat yourself. Go see the movie you’ve been wanting to see. Eat that ice cream sundae you’ve been eyeing since you started your diet. It is okay to take a break from the hard work and reward yourself for all of the efforts you’ve put in. It will give you even more motivation to achieve your goals.

Brag a little.

Yes, you read that right. Show off you’re accomplishments; you’ve worked so hard to complete them. Don’t over-do it, but it’s okay to tell your friend that you’ve lost fifty pounds in seven months or that you got an A on your finals. Your friends and family will be proud of you for reaching your goals.

Set new goals.

If your goal this year was to lose weight and you’ve achieved that, next year set a goal to tone up that body this year. This keeps things interesting, and you are always progressing and changing your goals to master your skill.

Following these steps can help your “New Year, New Me” dreams come true!