According to surveys, only about 8-12% of people stick to their New Year’s resolutions each year – which doesn’t exactly paint an encouraging picture!

What can you do to beat the odds? Try these simple tips.

Break Your Resolution Into Small Steps

Instead of choosing large and non-specific goals like “organize the house,” break your resolutions into monthly tasks. For instance, in January, tackle your office space. In February, clean out the kitchen cupboards and sort everything in the drawers. In March, organize the bathrooms. Make a plan for each month that will get you to your goal by the end of the year.

By breaking up your resolution into small, bite-sized chunks, you’ll be more likely to stick with it.

Work With a Friend

There’s nothing more motivating than working toward goals with friends. Whenever you are finding yourself facing obstacles, your buddy can challenge you to push forward. When you fall down, they can help you get back on your feet. And of course, the best part is celebrating those little – and big – successes together.

Don’t Choose a Resolution You’ve Already Chosen Before

Avoid the temptation to choose a resolution you have already tried – and failed – to achieve. If you’ve been resolving to lose 50 pounds or double your income for the past couple of years, it might be time to retire those goals. Not because they are unachievable, but because they now carry a lot of emotional weight that can make your resolution difficult to stick with. Try resolutions that are tangentially related, instead. For instance, health goals related to cutting back on sugar and eating more vegetables, or professional development goals that perhaps include attending conferences and seminars that will increase the value of your expertise.

Give Your Resolutions a Reality Check

Do you have the resources to achieve your goals in the new year? If you have a fitness goal that demands a gym membership, do you have the time and money to put into it? Can you afford the music lessons, do you have time to complete the yoga certification program, do you have energy to spare to train for that marathon? These are all important questions to consider, and they will help you hone a realistic – meaning achievable – resolution.

For more tips, tricks, and life hacks, follow The Davis blog.