The start of a new year is the perfect time to set new goals and resolutions. However, people often find themselves struggling with maintaining their commitments and are typically unmotivated by the end of the first week. There may be a few reasons for that, but some simple changes in both the way a goal is written and the approach taken to it can make all the difference, eventually turning a goal into a habit.

When writing resolutions, it is best to follow a SMART format. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. To make a goal specific, outline the exact steps you plan on following in order to achieve your goal. Mapping out the entire process helps put into perspective what it is you want to accomplish and how, making it easier for you to take action. Making a measurable goal is assigning some sort of metric to it so you can track progress and know you have successfully met your goal. An achievable goal is one that has taken into consideration the skill and effort required to complete it. Relevant goals are ones that properly align with the outcome you are hoping to achieve, including your lifestyle in the long run. In order to do that, you must recognize what is important to you and set goals that go along with that. Lastly, making a goal time-bound is setting a realistic time frame for it, which will motivate you to succeed.

As for executing your resolutions, there are several methods that will make your goals last. Keeping the big picture in mind will motivate you to keep going despite potentially feeling unmotivated to do so. Imagining yourself in the future once your goal has been achieved is sure to inspire you to keep going. In addition, doing a little bit every day is going to prevent you from burning out ahead of time, but will ensure that you are still making progress. Tracking that progress will help you visualize how far you have come and how much you still need to do. For any advances you make, it is a good idea to reward yourself so you can feel accomplished. Lastly, keep in mind that progress is not linear and sometimes, for every two steps you take forward, you might take one back. Regardless of that, stay positive and remain focused so that your resolutions can be upheld.

If you are looking to improve your lifestyle and well-being, resolutions will help you do just that. While it may be difficult to stay motivated, these tips should combat any feelings of lethargy that might arise as the year progresses.