Here we are, on the cusp of a new year. 2013 promises to deliver everything that we've always wanted... our resolution list grows by the second.

But how will you keep those resolutions? Will you have abandoned them for folly mere weeks into the year?

I found an article through one of the Facebook pages I subscribe to - Helping Organize People Everyday  - and they offer some great tips on how to stick with your resolutions. (They also have tons of great organizational stories year round!)

Here's a link to the story, but I'll sum it up quick:

Be specific. You can' t just say, "I want to be healthier." That's too broad and how can you define that, or your success?  Try, instead, "I want to cut soda out of my diet." That's a healthy goal (and one we'll talk about later!). Or, "I want to exercise 2 days per week for at least 30 minutes."  That's measurable, reasonable and a great small goal on the way to a healthier you.

Make your goal public.  Tell someone, anyone, EVERYONE about your new goal. If it's to quit smoking, tell your smoking buddies. "Hey, I'm kicking the habit so don't invite me on smoke breaks." Or, "Who wants to join me for a brisk walk 2 evenings a week? It's my goal!"  You'll get your work outs in, and possibly get closer with friend or family member while you walk and talk.

Substitute good behaviors for the bad.  If there is a bad habit in the way of your success, find something positive to take it's place. If you always have dessert, or feel like snacking after supper, brush and floss your teeth right after the meal. Your teeth will look great and no one likes to mess up that minty fresh feeling with junk food! Gum is also another great tool to curb the munchies.

Track your progress. I've mentioned it before, but I like to know how I'm progressing in order to see success on paper. Sure I may look and feel better, but there is nothing as awesome as saying, "I've lost xx inches, xx pounds, and went from a size Y to a size X. 

Each year I tend to bite off more than I can chew with my resolutions. This year I'm focused on finding small,  healthy changes that I can stick to for life. Not a diet, not a fad, but something that will help me achieve my Whole Life. 

I hope you will join me! What will your goals for 2013 be? 

<3 Jen