It’s that time of the year again ~ when we look to the future and try to “turn over a new leaf” to better our lives. Many of us resolve to start a work-out routine or shed a few pounds. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, here are some ways to increase your chances for success:

1. Acknowledge and reward your efforts in 2009. Make a list of your achievements and accomplishments in 2009 and then treat yourself to a something special for all of your hard work and effort.
2. Set a goal for 2010. Pick one area of your life that you would like to change for the better in 2010. Write your goal for 2010 in one simple sentence.
3. Create a plan. Choose 3 actions for the month of  that will move you closer to the goal you have selected.
4. Schedule a reward for your monthly efforts. If you have achieved the actions that you set for this month, select a reward for your efforts.

My goal for 2010 is to exercise regularly.

Plan:

1. Each week I will look at my schedule and commit specific times for exercise. Times when I will exercise on my own and other times for formal classes.
2. In addition, I will stretch and begin to condition my core muscles.
3. I will be sure not to over do it and be gentle with my conditioning routine to avoid injuries.

If I can successfully accomplish these actions weekly in this month, then my reward for my efforts will be to treat myself to a massage.

This simple formula for taking a goal and breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps is highly effective for all tasks that at first seem overwhelming. And remember to reward your successes.

Try this strategy with your goal for 2010, I promise you will be pleased with the results!!