New Year’s resolutions last all year whether you’re diligently carrying out the oath you made to yourself on January 1 or starting fresh in April with a revised version that now seems much more realistic. Wherever you find yourself, you can be the best you can be in 2009 by adding some or all of these motivators and tips to your resolution fulfillment.

1. Change small things first. If you start with a list of 75 things you’re going to change about yourself, chances are that you are going to burn out quickly and not accomplish much. Major lifestyle changes don’t usually happen overnight unless by force, such as a medical condition. Instead they are more successfully achieved in small steps that address the factors surrounding the larger need for change. If working less is your goal, start by making a few nights a week personal or family nights where there is no work allowed. You may need time to revamp your entire workweek to make this possible, so give yourself time.

2. Set goals based on past performance. If you know that you are never going to go to the gym 5 nights a week, set your sights on one night per week and be flexible with what day that is. Or perhaps start by walking around the block with your dog or kids and work up to a full-on work out.

3. Involve others…or don’t. If having an accountability partner is what keeps you motivated then have a real conversation about your goals with that person. Make it someone who shares your love for working out or playing ball or studying more. If having another person on your case is an annoyance that will make you want to not get up and run, then become your own personal motivating force. Know yourself and be real about what does and does not work consistently for you.

4. Know when it’s time to suck it up and make those much needed changes no matter how you feel. Some resolutions simply must be kept especially those that have to do with your physical and/or mental health. If you’ve tried and failed to hold yourself accountable for prolonged changed, it’s time to hand the reigns to someone else and obey.

5. Factor in rewards and enjoyment. If your To Do list is nothing but chores and daunting tasks, you might as well pitch it and not waste your time and frustration. Harsh, but true. Why are you making the list in the first place? Your health, happiness, your family? There has to be a desired goal or an end you’re working toward. Set up milestone and celebrate them when they come. Have more rewards than chores. So what if it’s a lopsided balance. If it keeps you going, it’s worth it.       

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