The new year is here, which means a new you. Right? But it’s not always that easy. We share some secrets of how highly motivated people manage to achieve their goals.

When you make a plan, anticipate bumps
Before even trying to achieve a goal, identify the potential pitfalls. People who plan for obstacles are more likely to stick with projects than those who don’t.

Don't let your goals run wild...
When your sights are too ambitious, they can backfire, burn you out, and actually become demotivating. Instead of aiming unrealistically high, set goals that are a stretch but not an overreach.

...But work on them every day
According to Daniel Pink, author of Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, taking small steps every day will not only help hold your interest in what you’re trying to achieve, but will also ensure that you move slowly, but surely, toward your goal.

Go public with it
Instead of keeping your intentions to yourself, make them known to many. After all, it’s harder to abandon a dream when you know that people are tracking your progress. Take the girl who wanted to lose 10kg. She created a blog and told all her friends to read it. “I wanted something to hold me accountable,” she says.

Challenge yourself – and change things
It’s hard to remain enthusiastic when everything stays the same. Make small changes to stay motivated.

Keep on learning
To refuel your efforts, focus on enjoying the process of getting to the goal, rather than just eyeing the finish line.

Remember the deeper meaning
You’re more likely to reach a goal when it has true personal significance to you. Establishing the deeper meaning of your goal, also helps you to decide if you really want to commit to achieving it.

Reworked from an article by Lesley Alderman.

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