By this time each year many of our New Year's resolutions have already failed, or are on the road to failure. What's so hard about staying on goal? More often than not, it's a matter of good intentions falling victim to poor execution.



     But it's time to break the cycle, and end the excuses. Make 2005 the year you actually follow through! Adopt these tips to ensure you end the year healthier, happier and feeling totally resolved.

Make three your limit. By trimming your resolutions down to three or fewer, you'll avoid feeling overwhelmed by your own good intentions, and can concentrate on quality over quantity. Remember, it's better to do a few things well than to do a lot of things poorly, or not at all.

Focus on the means, not the end. Most people talk about resolutions in terms of results--losing weight, lowering body fat percentage or running faster. But meeting those broader goals requires focusing on the process. Instead of setting a goal of "getting faster," resolve to add one speed session to your weekly training schedule until you hit your time goal (and then reevaluate). Or, instead of striving for a "leaner body," vow to lift weights twice a week. The key is to concentrate on what you have the most control over and allow the results to follow.

Build momentum. Starting is always the hardest part. You'll need momentum to carry you through the first few months until your healthy habits become second nature. To get things rolling, set easy-to-do, one-month goals. This may mean joining the local gym or hiring the personal trainer your friend recommended. Doing so will create the steam you need to power you through your long-term objectives.

Be flexible. Being rigid can thwart even the most motivated person. Anticipate obstacles, and line up alternatives. If it's pouring rain outside, take your run indoors on the treadmill, or opt for a Spin class instead of your morning group ride. And by all means, if you need to skip a workout, understand that a few missteps don't mean you're totally off course. Simply get back in the saddle and keep your eye on the goal.

Speak up. Make your goals public. Tell friends, coworkers and family about your intentions, and ask them to hold you accountable for your progress. It's much harder to give up when others are watching. And once you succeed, you'll have plenty of people helping you celebrate with a congratulatory high-five.

Reap the rewards. Practice positive reinforcement--on yourself. Reward your progress when it happens, not before or after. Enjoy a healthy brunch after that first Spin class. Buy yourself a new CD for completing your first week of workouts. Celebrate your success! Just don't forget to make sure your rewards match your efforts.