In more recent years, I have begun to use the word "goals" instead of "resolutions". Whether one considers it the same thing or not, is not of much importance to me. The only reason why I have made that small change in name is because of the stereotypes of my, and others, attempts at starting something new, only to stop relatively quickly afterward.

I love the new year in that it provides me something to look forward to beginning - a hard date to look towards and start it strongly in mind. All of my focus and energy waits like a bull getting ready to be released at a rodeo from his gate. This helps me launch out strong. Here is where most get tripped up. They start strong, but do not have a plan to sustain the new goal they have stepped out towards. A plan is needed. Not just a plan, but something in writing and with a gathered circle of accountability to help stay the course.

Ultimately, the motivation, desire, and actual work must come from within - the new goal cannot merely be a wish, but a genuine heart that aches to see change and the willingness to do whatever and go through whatever to see that new goal come to fruition.