How to Set Powerful New Year's Resolutions - Part 1 of 2

Happy New Year! It's that time of year again - the time when we firmly resolve to improve certain aspects of our life. If you're considering setting New Year's Resolutions, then you won't want to be without this guide, packed with tips and tricks for the best 2011 imaginable!

Step 1: Be Clear

The very first step in setting effective New Year's Resolutions is to be clear about what it is that you want. If you're resolving to take better care of yourself this year, get specific and think about what that looks like? Perhaps you are ready to quit smoking, to take on a consistent exercise regimen, or to eat healthier. Next, you'll want to look at why you want this. To you, why is better self-care so important? Perhaps you want to set a good example for your children or grandchildren. Maybe you're concerned about aging or hereditary diseases, and you're taking preventative measures. Or maybe you're just at a point in your life where your health has become more important than instant gratification. Whatever the reason, getting to the root cause of the "why" will help you stick to your resolution when you'd rather quit.

Success and Your Mindset - How To Achieve Goals, Keep Learning, And Stay Positive In Your Self Talk

Setting goals is just a part of the process of being successful in anything you do. You must also have the right mindset, and maintain a positive attitude in everything you do. Life does get in the way, but work on planning out the weeks and months ahead, learning as much as you can, and implementing everything you learn as quickly as possible. These are some of the keys to leading a successful, effective life.

Writing down your goals is crucial. Keep a notebook where you can write down exactly what you want to achieve. This has been tested and measured for more than seventy-five years, and it is shown that people who actually spend the time to write down their goals are much more likely to achieve them. When you write down your goals it is like giving yourself an internal challenge. Your mind will now go after those goals with tenacity.

Your mindset refers to the way you think and talk to yourself throughout the day. Are you using positive and encouraging self talk? It is amazing how many people put themselves down and talk themselves out of accomplishing their goals. When you find yourself thinking that you can't do something or that someone else is smarter or better than you are, stop it immediately. You can sabotage your success more than someone else can. You have complete control over the way you talk to yourself, so be positive and encouraging every single minute. The harder you work at this the better you will become.