We all get in the same mindset this time of year: “New Year, New Me!” We, collectively, want to improve something in our lives, and we feel the most opportune time to initiate this new change is the start of the new year. It makes sense, but why do we seem to abandon our goal a couple of weeks after the new year begins? Past research has suggested that only about 16 percent of people actually follow through on their resolution. So, the better question is, how can we make resolutions that will actually stick?

Your first hurdle to overcome in making any change to your life is mindset. Getting in a good headspace may look different to others, but the outcome is very much the same. Being realistic about your goal is key. If your resolution is to be healthier, start slowly. If you’ve never stepped foot inside a gym before, you shouldn’t expect to start going 7 days a week.

Although having an eager attitude is great, starting out the gate running may cause burnout which leads to an unsuccessful outcome. Planning ahead can be another successful way to ensure your resolution sticks. If you chose to quit smoking or get more organized, it will be easier for you to achieve this goal if you make a plan before you initiate action.

Writing out your plan for success is also a great way to achieve your goals. If you can see the steps written clearly, it gives you the confidence to execute the action you must take to obtain the goal.

Tracking your progress and rewarding yourself will also give you the strength to continue forward. Tracking improvement helps you see the leaps and bounds of where you are compared to the past, and the reward gives you a little incentive to carry on toward your final goal.

If you happen to make a mistake during your journey to a new lifestyle, don’t beat yourself up! Remember, most resolutions are made to ultimately achieve a better life. That means these new habits are supposed to last, you know—for life. It’s unlikely you will never falter on the road to success, and that’s ok! The best thing you can do for yourself is to always get up and continue on.