Real-life Inspiration

Keep your resolution front of mind by writing it down and taping it to your mirror or fridge, suggests Connecticut-based psychologist Kenneth Schwarz, Ph.D. Then, add a list of six related mini goals to spur motivation. If your goal is to lose weight, for example, then your mini goals might be: "When stressed, eat an apple instead of a doughnut," or "For every hour of TV watching, walk at least 15 minutes." Each time you complete a mini goal, place a fun gold star next to it! This makes you feel capable, builds enthusiasm and helps prevent you from losing hope, adds Schwarz.