This New Year, I Resolve ...

We're not big on New Year's resolutions at BaT, but this year we are trying a couple. There's the standard hope of exercising a little more and drop those 10 pounds we've added this year. And then there's the issue of keeping the blog moving forward.

Have you made resolutions? If you have or are still planning to, read these four steps to success.

The first rule is to focus on one resolution at a time. If you start the New Year thinking, 'I will lose weight, exercise four times a week, be a better person, make more money, etc.' you'll be overwhelmed and won't focus on anything. Start with one specific goal that's important to you (your most painful problem) at the present moment and develop a detailed plan of action for success.

The second rule for resolutions is to record them on paper or a computer; this way the goals won't be forgotten or changed. You'll find it easier to continue with your plan when it's written out on paper or your computer.

The third rule is that you must be held accountable for your resolutions, otherwise you'll 'let the goal go' when it gets tough. Designate a friend, mentor or a coach to monitor your progress, offer support and hold you accountable.

The fourth rule is you must be persistent; no goal will happen unless you keep working. This can be the most challenging rule -- especially if you're trying to lose weight and you don't see immediate results.

So who will be our accountability buddy? Before you volunteer, remember, you should be keeping your own blog up to serve as a good example. :-p

Happy New Year, everyone!