Ah, the time of year for resolutions. So easy to make, and so tough to keep all year long. Or are they?

Following a resolution all year may seem like a daunting task (cue annual joke that people abandon them by February), but following some key steps this year may help you win the resolution game. Seriously.

If you’ve made a resolution already or if you’re still thinking of one, keep these tips in mind for 2020.

Be specific.

resolutions dart board cowgirl magazine

“Eat healthier.”

“Read more.”

“Go to the gym more often.”

While these are wonderful thoughts, it can sometimes be tough to stick to resolutions that are this general. For example, if your mind works better with deadlines and specifics, try changing “Spend more time with family” to “Go out with family twice a month,” or change “Read more” to “Read one book per week.”

 …but not too specific.

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Some goal-setting techniques involve specifics that get almost too detailed and deter individuals from keeping their resolutions. If you tend to get stressed due to deadlines like reading one book per week, it’s okay to keep your goal as more of a general reminder or life pillar to keep you on track. Which brings us to our next point.

Think of your resolution as a lifestyle change rather than an add-on to your schedule.

bullet journal resolutions cowgirl magazine

If you want to be someone that reads more, become that person. Think of your resolution as a change you’re making in your lifestyle to better yourself and your life experience. If you think of your resolution as something you’re adding onto your daily life, it can be easy to skip it. Your mind might rationalize that you don’t have time for the task of reading, you can skip it. Seeing your resolutions as a part of your lifestyle rather than tasks to be completed can help you stay on track.

Give yourself incentive.

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Why do you want to accomplish this goal? What will you get out of sticking to this resolution all year long? Use that finish line as motivation, and keep it in mind every time you work toward fulfilling your resolution.

Set smaller goals for yourself.

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Sometimes, a resolution can seem so big that you don’t know where to start. If your resolution is to spend more time with family, you could make a task for yourself to reach to your family members frequently to see what they’re up to. Another task that could help you work toward your goal might be to research activities that your family could do together. Checking off smaller tasks can help you feel a sense of achievement as you work to keep your resolution, which can serve as motivation!

Don’t break the chain.

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You know how if you work out for a week and then take a few days off, it can be tough to get back into the swing of things? Remember this regarding your resolutions. Spend a little time every day/week/month on your resolution, whether it’s actually doing a task or merely brainstorming ideas. With that being said, it’s okay to take a break if you need one. Resolutions are supposed to improve your life, not hold you back.

With dedication, you can achieve anything you put your mind to. Good luck in 2020, cowgirls!