Making resolutions is pretty much a national tradition. We resolve to be better managers of our time, our relationships, our money and our bodies. Whether we’re trying to get fit or just maintain or improve our fitness levels, most of us are making fitness resolutions that are often just waiting to be broken and can leave us feeling discouraged, cranky and ready for some ice cream. In bed.

The key to making resolutions that you can keep and benefit from is to make them realistic. I’ve discovered a wonderful blog called ChicFitChef and the sassy and fun owner of this blog has a great post this week called “3 Ways to Achieve Your 2013 Fitness Resolutions.” She’s spot on and I wanted to share what she has to say:

1. Pick one goal to focus on.

How likely is it that you’re going to lose 10 pounds, get a six-pack and eat more veggies all at the same time? Sometimes less is more; set one goal that you can focus your attention on and accomplish.”

I cannot agree more. Pick one goal, preferably a smallish one. Sticking with it will give you the motivation to add to the list of fitness changes you can make this year! Start with one thing, such as working out three times a week or walking every other morning. Once you’ve shown yourself that you can stick to your guns, you can add another goal.

2.  Set clear milestones.

Experts agree that for a goal to be achievable, it has to be measurable. Pick a number and attach it to your resolution. Losing weight is not a measurable goal. Losing ten pounds by March is. When you have a measurable goal, you not only have an end in sight, you also have a way to tell when you should celebrate your success!

3. Believe in yourself and your goal.

It might sound corny, but believing in yourself is the surest way you’ll be able to stick to your fitness/health resolutions. Don’t start out saying that you won’t achieve your goal because then, believe me, you won’t!”

This one is so important. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting goals that are too high or too hard for you to believe in. Break bigger goals down into smaller ones and you’ll be far more likely to succeed.

This can be your happiest, fittest and hottest year yet. Believe in yourself, believe in new beginnings and make resolutions that are promises to yourself, not obstacles!