It’s the time of the year again when many people view the new year as a fresh start and an opportunity to make changes in their life. Along with the changing year, people often set goals or New Year’s resolutions for themselves. While intentions might be good, it is not always easy to maintain. Here are 4 tips to help you achieve your New Year’s resolutions.

1. Set realistic goals. Set an attainable goal rather than one that is based on unrealistic expectations. For example, setting a goal to be healthier is great, but make sure you have small goals which include adjustments to improve your food decisions and increase your physical activity level.
2. Don’t get discouraged. These resolutions need room for flexibility. There are going to be weeks where you are busy, sick, or on vacation and don’t achieve everything you want to. The worst thing you could do is allow yourself to become discouraged and eventually give up.
3. Make small changes to your mindset and lifestyle. Dr. Roberta Anding, a registered dietician and nutrition professor at Baylor College of Medicine, told Huffington Post to view the new year as an opportunity to reset. “January 1 signifies a new beginning. However, each day allows for a new beginning, and hence it is a reset,” Anding said. You will be more successful if you make small changes every day.
4. Enjoy the journey. It is easy to get wrapped up in the end goal, but that makes the effort to get there far less enjoyable. Find ways to enjoy the small changes you are making and appreciate the work you are putting in along the way.

What about you? Do you have any New Year’s resolutions? Tell us in the comments.