New Years is coming, and we all need something positive in our lives. Completing New Year’s resolutions is a perfect way to start off on the right track. 

However, it’s easier said than done. According to the U.S News & World Report, about 80% of people fail to complete their resolutions. 

But not taking control over our lives is the last thing we should do after this year. So, here are some tips to help you gain momentum in 2021. 

Get rid of the low-stakes mentality. “If I don’t finish it, I’ll have next year” is one of the many excuses and rationalizations for why you don’t want to finish your new year resolutions. 

Be specific and write it down. By doing that, you’re telling your brain that this isn’t a priority and therefore you lose motivation. People often make vague resolutions and just try to remember it in their heads, which is why they fail. 

You can make better resolutions by following the format of “ I will [BEHAVIOR] at [TIME] in [LOCATION]” from the book called Atomic Habit. For example, I will go on the treadmill at 7:30 A.M at the gym for 30 minutes. You can add more details to make it even more specific. 

Start small. People often go to extremes and quit just to end up with the same old habits. Do your resolutions gradually and in small increments do your resolutions. For instance, If you want to exercise more, slowly increase the amount of time you spend at the gym.  

Make it as painless as possible. Give yourself a reward during or after your activity. For example, listen to music or comedy during your workouts. If you manage to associate a positive feeling to your resolutions, then you will more likely do it again. 

Lastly, have an accountability partner. This could be your friend, mom, dad, or even someone who has the same goal as you. This can further motivate you to finish your resolutions.