As the year draws to an end, many of us make resolutions to improve ourselves and our lives. While it can be exciting to start fresh, it's also important to remember that change takes time and effort. If you're looking to stay motivated and achieve your resolutions this year, here are a few tips to help you get started and stay on track:

Make specific and achievable goals.

Instead of resolving to "exercise more," set a specific goal, like "exercise for 30 minutes three times a week." This will make it easier to track your progress and feel a sense of accomplishment as you reach each milestone.

Break your goals into smaller chunks.

Instead of focusing on the end goal, such as losing 50 pounds, try breaking it up into smaller increments, like 5 pound goals. It can be overwhelming to focus on the larger goal of losing 50 pounds and it can rob you of feeling proud of your small victories. Every step towards that goal is something to be proud of, so don't wait until you achieve the larger goal to celebrate your progress. This will make the journey towards your goal more enjoyable and rewarding.

Start small.

Instead of trying to overhaul your entire life at once, it's better to focus on one or two resolutions and make small, consistent changes towards those goals. This approach is more likely to lead to lasting change, as opposed to trying to do everything at once and becoming overwhelmed. Remember, small, consistent changes that last will add up to more progress in the long run than numerous large changes that are abandoned.

Celebrate your progress.

It's important to celebrate your progress, no matter how small, as this can help keep you motivated and on track to achieving your goals. Don't be afraid to pat yourself on the back and give yourself a well-deserved round of applause! Just be sure to celebrate in moderation, as you still have work to do and don't want to undermine your progress.

Don't beat yourself up.

It's normal to have setbacks and make mistakes along the way. Don't let one slip-up derail all of your progress. Instead, use it as an opportunity to learn and adjust your approach. Forgive yourself and get right back to work.

Find a support system.

It's easier to stay motivated when you have someone to encourage and motivate you. Find a friend or family member who can support you in your goals, or join a community of like-minded individuals working towards similar resolutions. This journey can be lonely if you choose to do it alone. Just having someone to share your thoughts with, help with setbacks and share your victories with will help push you.