Many people start the year by making New Year's resolutions. This is a time to get motivated and create a change in your life. The problem is, you can start out strong and eventually forget about those resolutions. Sometimes, this is due to a lack of motivation. But most of the time, it's because you didn't set reasonable goals to begin with.

Make a list of things you want to change. They can be related to physical appearance, personality or spiritual growth. Be specific, and be honest with yourself. That is the only way to make a change.

Choose two or three major changes you would like to work on. It is always best to pursue only a few goals at a time. If you don't think you can even handle that many, start out with one. Come up with a long-term goal you want to reach by the end of the year.

Within each long-term goal, create mid-term and short-term goals to make it easier to reach. For example, if it is your long-term goal to lose 30 lbs. over the course of the year, you can break it up into smaller endeavors. Mid-term goals can consist of certain distances you want to be running at specific intervals, or even check points in weight loss. Short-term goals can include a change of diet or something simple like walking up the stairs instead of using the elevator.

Create timelines and schedules. Give yourself a reasonable amount of time to complete each aspect of your long-term goals.

Make a list of do's and don'ts that will help you attain your goals. This can be a list of food items you want to avoid or exercise activities you want to engage in.

Plan to give yourself a little treat each time you complete a part of your goal. This will give you a proper incentive to keep making progress.