It's a new year.  A new DECADE, even.  2020 could be the year that you finally make the big move, start the business, lose the weight or get your nutrition on track.  

It's tough, though, if you are all the way off the wagon by January 15.  

Outshine to the rescue.  Here are a few tips to help you stay on track and crush those goals in the first year of the (new) Roaring '20's. 

1. Start Whenever it Feels Right

I realize this sounds.... counterintuitive since this is a New Year's post. 

Still, you shouldn't feel tied to the first day of a new year on the calendar as a hard start date.

Allow yourself the time to properly prepare. Set a smart, actionable goal that can be measured, and put the measures in place to track to the goal. That includes considering any possible pitfalls- like lack of motivation or temptations.  If your plan is to work out each day after work, for example, plan ahead for co-worker requests for happy hour and dinner. Maybe you can fit in a quick work out and meet them after, instead of skipping it altogether.  The more prepared you are to address these possible temptations, the better you are setting yourself up to succeed

2. Maintain that Motivation

Let's face it, feelings of fatigue and anxiety can zap motivation, and stop you in your tracks.  To combat that, try listing your reasons for adhering to your resolution while still feeling inspired, to be read on days when motivation is lacking.  In this way, you'll be using your logic to help you overcome the emotional reasons that are pulling you away. And if that doesn't work, you can barter with yourself and take in that episode of "Riverdale"- but only if you are on the treadmill. 

3. Make it a Habit

Do your best to make the resolution automatic.  For example, if your goal is to eat a healthier diet, plan out your meals in advance, and pre-pack & portion them so you can easily grab & run to the office. Do your best to relieve as many of the pain points as you can- make it as easy as possible to stick to your goal.  After a few weeks, it will feel like you've always done it that way. 

4. Get Back Up When You Fall Down

None of us is perfect.  It is very likely that you will slip up.  It's how you return from the slip up that matters.  Remember, progress is sometimes two steps forward and one step back.  Instead of being hard on yourself, grant yourself a little grace & come back stronger.  

So, friends, how will you work to achieve all those goals in the new decade ahead?