Sticking to Your Resolutions - Valley News Live - KVLY/KXJB - Fargo/Grand Forks

The new year is almost here, and that means millions of Americans will make resolutions to try to improve their lives. Unfortunately, most will not succeed. But there are some tips on how to make resolutions you can reach.

Exercising more is one of the most popular resolutions people make for the new year- to work out more, and be healthier, and lose weight.

For many the New Year means new beginnings. Research shows more than 100 million Americans resolve to change their behavior every January, but only a third of them succeed. Some resolutions are just unrealistic, so make goals you know you can reach.

Another tip: say you are going to eat better and healthier...not diet. At first pick one of two foods to limit, and then add more. If you're putting milk into your coffee, instead of doing whole milk or half and half, try skim.

You'll also want to reward yourself for your accomplishments. It will keep you motivated and looking forward to your next goal. But experts say don't make bad food your reward for being good.

Also, keep a log to keep you honest. Track everything from food to exercise to sleep habits, be it positive or negative. That's when it really becomes a reality for people.

And allow yourself room to make mistakes. If you slip up, just get back on track quickly. Don't wait until next year to make another resolution.