The New Year is upon us and everyone is talking about their new goals or resolutions. Keeping resolutions is not always easy, especially when life returns to normal after the holidays, with school, work and responsibilities back in full swing. To keep the motivation going throughout the year, here are some tips to turning those goals into realities.

Goals vary from person to person and it is important to remember that your journey is going to be different than everyone else.

“Goals will vary (wanting to be a better student, wanting to be more active, etc.) but one thing we’ve noticed in our work with students is that naming a goal and figuring out how to achieve that goal are two different things,” Lead Strategist for the Academic Success Center Anika Lautenbach said. “It’s important to be specific in your goal and to break that goal down into steps.”

When it comes to goal setting, keep your goals specific and create a step-by-step plan as to how you’re going to achieve it. Plan for obstacles you might encounter and make a plan to overcome those tough times. Breaking goals into manageable steps makes them seem less daunting because you have a full plan. 

“Change is exciting, but it can also be scary or difficult. Whatever you’re feeling, you’re not alone in feeling that way,” Lautenbach said. “Set up your system for achieving your goal and remember to think about how you’ll motivate, celebrate and stay accountable.”

Many people give up on their resolutions and goals, so it is important to keep motivated. Whether that be setting a rewards system or finding support from friends, family, professors, whomever to hold you accountable and stay on your path. Another simple method is giving yourself reminders, on your phone, on a poster by your bed, even on your fridge; having a constant reminder for what you’re working toward can keep you on track.

“Good resolutions and goals look different for everyone- don’t worry if your idea of success doesn’t look like someone else’s,” Lautenbach said. “If you know you need to make a change, but you’re not sure what it would be, talk it out with a friend or mentor. Give yourself space to reflect on your strengths and then assess your challenges and then set a goal that feels manageable.”

If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed about setting resolutions and goals, whether it be in the New Year or in the middle of the term, the ASC has strategists, coaches and materials to help you plan and achieve your goals.