In a research study of 1,000 people, 98 percent said they were unable to keep resolutions. If your commitment to your 2011 New Year’s resolutions is already crumbling, don’t give up.

To achieve success, review, revise and recommit to your goals. First, review your choices. You may be expecting too much of yourself if you have several goals requiring major change. Instead, revise your list to include no more than one or two reasonable goals. Then recommit by following a few simple strategies that have been successful for others. Research shows that implementing a combination of any four of the following tactics can help you follow through. 
 
• Create an environment that will help you achieve your goal. If you resolve to cut spending, leave credit cards home when you go out or consider canceling all but one, and stay away from shopping malls and shopping websites. If your goal is to lose weight, stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables and avoid fast foods, which can contribute significantly to obesity.
 
• Identify motivation. Make sure your motives align with your values. What matters most to you?  Perhaps a resolution to do a kind deed daily for someone or to spend more time with family and friends is more meaningful to you than a physical appearance goal. 
 
• Increase your skills. If your resolution is to save money, then gain expertise by learning more about budgeting and personal finance. If your goal is weight loss, join a health spa, get a personal trainer or find a walking buddy with similar goals.
 
• Enlist the help of others. Get reinforcement from family, friends and colleagues. They can boost your confidence when willpower starts to slip.
 
• Stay away from social situations and people who may not be supportive. Two resolutions that make the top ten list every year include “stop smoking” and “stop drinking.” If you are working on either of these, this tip is particularly important. Avoid people and places that might weaken your resolve.
 
 •  Reward yourself. Measure milestones and be sure to celebrate even small steps toward success.
 
Before giving up on your New Year’s resolutions, pick four of these strategies and get back in the game. You can still achieve your goals.
 

By: Lou Mueller - Jan. 10, 2012