Have you ever heard that your chances of achieving a goal increases by more than 40 percent simply by writing it down? It’s true. There’s something about putting things on

paper that make them seem less abstract, more of a reality. Whatever your health resolutions are, jot them down and put them someplace where you’ll have to look at them,

more than once a day. Maybe your bedroom or bathroom mirror. Even better, your refrigerator. It’s like hearing yourself say, “Remember what you said you would do” on a constant basis.

A reason why a lot of people don’t keep their resolutions is because they have very little accountability. You need someone to check in, encourage and even question you if

you’re not doing what you said you would do. Accountability can be annoying at times, but it’s very necessary if you’re serious about setting a goal and reaching it.

To say that you’re going to have ripped abs by spring when you first need to lose 30 pounds is not very realistic. On top of that, you might put

yourself in the position of doing things that are also not very safe. Focus on accomplishing what you know---based on your personality and schedule---you can handle. As you start seeing

results, up the ante a bit. Some people think that if they say something extreme from the beginning, they increase their chances of succeeding. More times than not, the opposite

is what happens.

Small goals lead to bigger triumphs. They also prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and wanting to quit. If you want to transition into becoming a vegan and you’re currently a

huge meat eater, start by cooking two vegan meals a week for a few weeks. Then gradually add more in. Before you know it, you’ll have completely transitioned your diet

without losing your mind in the process.

You know what they say: It takes 21 days to make or break a habit. Personally, we think it’s probably better to use the word “habit” over “resolution” because it

puts you in the mindset that what you’re setting out to do is going to become a part of your overall lifestyle. Resolutions? They make us think of the temporary.

Whatever you’re planning to do, health-wise, commit to doing no less than 21 days. Before you know it, it’ll be like second nature to you.

Anyone who sets a goal and reaches it deserves a reward. So, give yourself something to look forward to once you accomplish your resolution. If you plan on shedding 10

pounds, get yourself a new dress. If you’re going to meditate daily, set a spa appointment. Going to stop smoking or drinking? You deserve a trip for that! If you

know that something is going to happen once you reach your goal, that will give you much more of an incentive to follow through. In fact, also put this on

your list of health resolutions. That way, you can read “A trip to my favorite resort” every day too!