Let’s see if we can stop the cycle of deciding to make change and then not following through this year.

Did you make a new year’s resolution?

How’s it going so far? Did you make any last year?

Did you keep them or were they broken?

Here are a few tips to help them stick:

Keep it real

Whatever goal that you choose, make it attainable.

For instance, resolving to never eat cassava pie again is setting yourself up to fail.

Instead, strive for a goal that is attainable, such as having it only on holidays.

Prepare

Don’t make all your resolutions on New Year’s Eve.

If you wait until the last minute, your resolutions will be based on however you are feeling on that particular day and at that particular time.

It’s better to start thinking about change well before December 31, carefully considering whether or not it’s right for you.

Outline your plan

Decide how you will handle the temptation to skip an exercise class or have a piece of candy.

This could include calling on a friend for help or reminding yourself how your choices will affect your goals.

Share

Don’t keep your resolutions to yourself.

Tell a friend or family member who will help support your resolve for change or to improve your health.

Alternatively, find a buddy who shares your exact resolution so you can motivate each other.

Reward

This doesn’t mean that you can eat an entire box of chocolates left over from the holiday.

Celebrate your success by treating yourself to something you enjoy that doesn’t hinder your resolution. If you have been sticking to your promise to eat better, for example, reward yourself with new fitness gear or a movie with friends.

Track

Keep track of your success. Short-term goals are easier to keep, and each small accomplishment will help you stay motivated.

Instead of focusing on losing 20lb, focus on losing the first five. Keep a food journal to help you stay on track and throw in a reward for each 5lbs lost.

Stick to it

It takes about 21 days for a new routine to become a habit. It doesn’t happen overnight, so be persistent and patient!

Obsessing over the occasional slip-up won’t help you achieve your goal. Do the best you can each day, and take one day at a time.

Keep trying

If you have gone all out and run out of steam when it comes to keeping your resolution by the middle of next month, don’t fear.

Start over again! Recommit yourself for 24 hours. You can do anything for a day.

The 24-hour periods will build on each other and, before you know it, you will be back on track.

Did you make any resolutions? Share them in the comments section below, or on the B. ActiveForLife Facebook page. Keep those resolutions and B-Active For Life!

• Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook