I'm Getting My Shit Together This Year, I Swear...

Well, it's that time again, boys & girls! Another year is done, a new one has started and we're all hopeful. THIS will be the year that we whip ourselves into shape. We'll go to the gym regularly, stop working so hard, quit smoking, we promise.

I know that for many of you, New Years' resolutions are something to agonize over after you've failed to keep them, yet again. Continuing to do the same thing and expecting different results is complete insanity. Get off the hamster wheel and take control of your life.

Here are some tips to help you keep your resolutions...

1. GET REAL

Be honest with yourself. Know the difference between enjoyment and over-indulgence. Give yourself parameters. If you're sticking to them, great. If not, you need to deal with it.

2. GO COLD TURKEY-FOR AWHILE

Being completely abstinent for a period of time can make it easier to moderate your behavior thereafter. Taking a break can eliminate the automatic aspect of unwanted activity.

3. MEDITATE

Knowing your triggers can make it easier not to give in to them. Cravings WILL go away, if you can resist them long enough. Also, realize that willpower becomes stronger the more you use it, but can be weakened if overloaded. Set realistic, measureable short-term goals.

4. DON'T PUNISH YOURSELF

If you slip, don't beat yourself up about it. Just get back on track. When you do meet your goals, reward yourself with a new book or DVD. The joy of victory is a more powerful motivator than the agony of defeat.

5. BIRDS OF A FEATHER

Surround yourself with people who have similar goals. Peer pressure CAN be a positive thing. Emotional support is critical to changing destructive habits and creating postitive new ones. Good friends not only help you grow as a person, they are also much-needed role models.

As the year progresses, I'd love to hear from you all. Is it working for you? Why or why not?

Take care of yourselves, and stay tuned. Remember, this is only the beginning...

-RANI

Tips were borrowed from TIME.com, "How to Keep Your New Year's Resolutions: Advice From the Experts" by MAIA SZALAVITZ