Tips to achieve your New Year's resolution

With the holiday season behind us, many Americans have shifted their focus to setting their "New Year's Resolutions". The problem is, more often than not, people give-up within the first few months. This year, University of Phoenix will help you reach your goals and keep your resolutions with 7 easy tips!1. Evaluate 2009 for success and failures: Sit down with a pen and paper and think about January through December of 2009, and write down your successes in one column and your failures in another. 2. Identify what could have been done differently: For the "failures" column, identify what you could have done differently in order to avoid that failure. Next, identify what you did in order to accomplish your "successes". 3. Determine goals and keep it simple: Write down which steps you want to implement. Remember, don't set yourself up for failure by setting unrealistic goals; simplicity is key. Your simple goals will help you achieve your larger, long term goals. Take it one step at a time. 4. Keep steps focused on the solution: We've heard the saying "keep your eye on the ball" for a reason - its good advice! 5. Have a Plan and track your progress: Buy a calendar so you can plan your actions for the coming weeks or months, and decide when and how often to evaluate. Then, record whether or not you stick to that plan. Keep track of each small success you make toward reaching your larger goal and it write it down so you can reflect on your progress. 6. Predict potential disasters: Decide how you will deal with the temptations that will sidetrack you from your resolutions. This could include calling on a friend for help, practicing positive thinking, and self-talk. In addition, it is best to tell your friends or family about your resolutions because having a support group will help you stay motivated and on track. 7. Reward yourself: Celebrate your success by treating yourself to something that you enjoy, but will not contradict your resolution. Contributed by the University of Phoenix.

********** Published: January 8, 2010 - Volume 8 - Issue 38