New Year resolutions are somewhat unavoidable, due to not only tradition but because it is a natural time for new changes to commence. Many will say they’re a waste of time, and others will throw out statistics that prove their ultimate failure. But I for one, welcome them. Now, I admit that I have begun and not accomplished many New Year goals, but that doesn’t mean that they are unattainable. Rather, I believe that with the proper preparation and much thought, resolutions and goals can be achieved in the new year.

With that being said, I’ve created yet another list that I hope will aid you in the process of not only setting your New Year resolution but will help you attain it and remain consistent in the year to come. As always, remember to remain open minded, think of the beneficial outcomes, and remain positive.

1. Brainstorm

This is where creativity comes into play. Let your mind wander and come up with the goals you would like to achieve in this upcoming year. Whether it be to lose weight, to find a new hobby, to get better grades, to get a new job, to make new friends, and to find love…. I’m sure everybody can find a least one thing that they would like to accomplish in the new year. Be open to trying something new, and find a new and exciting change to make.

2. Specific

When creating goals, don’t be generic or broad. Rather, be very specific and direct. If you want to lose weight, set an exact amount that you would like to lose. The more direct you are, the better.

3. Realistic

Although I would like to say anything is attainable, sometimes things don’t happen the way you plan. So make sure your goals are not outlandish. This is a big problem when it comes to losing weight, yes some people can shed 50 pounds off no problem, but it's better to set a realistic goal that you personally can attain. In this case, I would talk to a trainer or doctor so that you can get a good idea of what is a healthy and realistic amount of weight that your should lose is.

4. Application

This is your ‘how’ you will accomplish your goal. If you want to get better grades, specify the steps you will take to make this happen. This can be organized in a checklist or a specific day to day plan.

5. Write

Put all of your ideas down on paper, and write out your specific goals. This is a great tool to keep yourself accountable and to keep the end goal in mind.

6. Accountability

Find people who will truly hold you accountable. Do this by telling your friends your plans for the new year and how you are going to accomplish them and ask them their goals. That way, you can both hold each other responsible for following through and allows you to encourage one another.

7. Motivation

Print off quotes, write phrases on sticky notes and place them in your room, set your lock screen with an image that portrays your goal, find ways to self-motivate. Friends can always be there to encourage you, but it's important to take ownership of your goals.

8. Have fun

Remember to not push yourself too hard, but enjoy the new beginnings that you are venturing on, and have fun!

Happy New Year everybody!

Best of luck.