Let me preface this by saying that I love the idea that at every new year we are able to start with a clean slate. The mistakes of the past are forgotten and goals are established for the new year. Nevertheless, I can not comprehend why we are limited to setting goals on the first day of a new year rather than at the moment we think of it.Goals are quite effective, not just in the new year but every day. If we want to accomplish something, we should not use the “starts tomorrow” philosophy.  People should aim to create reachable goals rather than plan when to begin them.According to the University of Scranton, nearly half of American make New Year’s resolutions. Of those, only 8 percent are likely to succeed. New Year’s resolutions are left unfulfilled because the benefits will take too long to see. This is the reason why smaller goals are more effective than big goals. As the new year begins, the all or nothing mentality dominates. If one cheats on the goal, he will most likely quit. In order to be successful, we have to be able to accept setbacks and know that although it will be a difficult journey, there is a reward at the end.There are several ways to make New Year’s resolutions last.

1. Writing down your resolution and posting them somewhere you will be able to see it can do the job. A constant reminder will make these goals last.
2. Be prepared to cheat and make mistakes. No one’s perfect so accept setbacks and continue progressing on your resolutions.
3. Tell people your goals. By letting people know your goals, you will be more accountable to accomplish them.
4. Small steps. For example, instead of saying I will be healthy. You should make small goals like I will eat an apple once a day.
5. Schedule. By scheduling in your reminders, you will be more successful
6. Do not overwhelm yourself with a laundry list of goals.
7. Do not become discourage. Nothing happens overnight.