Around this time of year filled with holiday cheer, people gather whispering “new year’s resolutions” and screech in fear. Whether you plan on making lifestyle changes small or large for New Year’s, or any ‘ole regular day, challenges might arise in maintaining these changes.

1. Declare It

Promises often failed are those that we make only to ourselves. It might sound cliché, but there is power in words. Speaking about your goal with others, perhaps even pursuing it with friends, can help you stay on track. Dream boards can also be a guide for how to make the new year yours.

2. Create a Set Routine

A routine allows you to transform an idea into a hobby. Find a way to incorporate your new goal into your daily or weekly schedule. Perhaps for each day or week that you practice your resolution try it in a new way. Reinvention keeps things exciting and allows you to look forward to accomplishing your goal instead of dreading it. Soon what was planned will come to you naturally.

3. Don’t Forget the “Old” You in the New Year

When making large lifestyle changes it can be difficult to do so abruptly. While making a dramatic change like switching to a vegan diet or a more positive lifestyle, you might want to make a slow transition. Start off with simple changes then overtime add in more elements of your goal.

Most importantly, no matter what your goal is don’t lose sight of why you’re doing it. That makes all the difference. Have a Happy New Year!