Beginning a new year usually involves forming resolutions.  These intentions are mostly centered around fitness, nutrition and general overall health and well-being.  Very important goals. However, despite our best efforts, many of these routines and objectives dissolve even after a few days.  Why?

Harvard Business School Professor Stew Friedman explains that resolutions need to be carefully examined before making a firm commitment.  First, the resolution has to be important to you.  Picture yourself at the same time next year with the goal that you have intended accomplished and the results achieved.  How do you feel?

Also, this resolution should be communicated to the people that surround you – the people who care about you.  That way you will have the support and encouragement you need from those you love.

Take this week to find your resolution or reexamine the resolution that you have chosen:

• What matters most in my life?
• Why do I want to accomplish this goal?
• How would this goal affect the people in my life I care most about?

Lastly, don’t beat yourself up if you fall out here and there. A health researcher at University College London reported that it takes an average of 66 days for a new habit to form depending on the person, the circumstances and the behavior.

One more reason to keep it simple and remember that it is the process that counts.