2009 is nearing its end. It’s natural for us to reflect on the year that was and draw up a list of resolutions for next year. But it’s also common for us to quit trying after the holiday high is gone. To help you succeed, here are a few suggestions:

1. Make your aims clear. “I want to save up PhP10,000 by January by cutting down on shopping sprees” is clearer than “I want to save money”. Write them down and post your list in visible places. Being clear forces you to be realistic about your goals.
2. Categorize goals. Break long term goals into short term goals. Break short term goals into daily goals. This way, achieving your goal becomes less overwhelming.
3. Visualize. Imagine yourself achieving your goal and enjoying its benefits. Want to quit smoking? See yourself looking happy, healthy and relaxed without a cigarette hanging on your lips. Focus on the outcome. Imagination is an effective motivator.
4. Think of creative ways to change your behavior. For example, if your goal is to lose weight but being stressed causes you to overeat, you should modify your lifestyle by a) incorporating regular R and R, b) developing work-life balance or c) enrolling for gym classes.
5. Who says that you should make a long list of resolutions? It is easier and more practical to just choose the most important goal and stick to it, rather than spread yourself too thin trying to accomplish everything.