Resolutions - Pick One and Be Done!

It is statistically proven that almost 85% of people who make New Year’s resolutions will not achieve them by year end. What I’ve learned is that most of us bite off way too much at one time. A couple of years ago I ran across the most simple method to achieve resolutions. The principle is called 1 and Done. The theory of this idea is that we should focus on thing, and only one thing, rather than three or four goals.

Think of 1 resolution, the most important resolution, and then try using these tips by Amy Ahlers, an International Certified Life Coach, to help you achieve your goal.

Write It Down. It's a fact: writing down your goal gives you a higher chance of success.

Commit. Move beyond the land of "good ideas" to promise yourself to show up for your goal. Perhaps you can do a ritual or ceremony to symbolize your commitment.

Tell People. Let your biggest fans in on your new commitments and goal for the year.

Get Accountability. Even better than just letting others in on your "secret" dream and goal-get some accountability. Meet for lunch once a month with a group that will ask you, "So, how's it going with your goal?" Hire a Life Coach. Talk to your best friend. Get some support!

Make a Plan. Ensure success with a step-by-step plan. Start with the end vision of where you want to be and working backwards to where you are today. You'll find an easy plan to make your goal a reality.

Do a Goal Check-In. Before you decide on what you'll take on for the year, make certain you can answer, "YES!" to the following questions: "Am I the primary reason for setting this goal (vs. your mom, boyfriend, wife, boss, society)? Do I feel alive and energized by this goal? Is this goal in line with my life purpose or mission?"

Get Real! If you're contemplating putting a goal down that you always put down and never achieve, take a second look. How will this goal end DIFFERENTLY this year? Is this goal something you need to let go of? What purpose is it serving you? What's a good enough reason to finally achieve this goal?

Focus With Reminders. Once you've got your goal and plan in place, figure out ways to remind yourself. Some people post their goals in their bathrooms or cars. Others put reminders in their palm pilots, blackberrys or cell phones. Figure out what works for you.

Believe and Visualize. Do you know the story about the group of basketball players who spent one hour visualizing making baskets, while another group actually practiced? The visualizing players had better seasons! So visualize yourself on New Years Eve 2007 with all your goals achieved. What would that look like? How would it feel? Visualize once a day and see the difference it can make in your life.