The first few weeks of January always feel like setting out on a long walk early in the morning. The air is crisp, promises of sunlight hover at the edges, and the world feels wide and waiting. With your list of New Year’s resolutions in hand, you march forward, determined and sure. But, over time, the road gets bumpy, skies turn gray, and that initial energy wanes. Sound familiar?

Keeping New Year’s resolutions isn’t easy—it’s a dance between intention and commitment, full of missteps, hesitation, and moments where you wonder why you started at all. But it is possible. Here’s a guide to help you stay on track, with tips that feel like advice from a caring friend.

Make resolutions that feel achievable. It’s better to begin with “I’ll walk 15 minutes every day after dinner” instead of “I’ll run five miles each morning, rain or shine.” Small victories build momentum, and that momentum turns into habits.

Think of it as planting seeds. Tend to them every day, patiently and intentionally. Before you know it, those small actions bloom into something much bigger.

There’s something magical about seeing your resolutions in writing. Buy a journal, scribble them on sticky notes, or even create a vision board if you’re feeling crafty. Write why each goal matters to you, how it makes you feel, and what achieving it will bring to your life.

When you write them down, you’re not just listing tasks—you’re telling a story. It’s a story where you’re the main character, setting out on a path of change and growth.

Find ways to integrate your resolutions into the rhythms of your day. Want to save more money? Set up an automatic savings transfer every payday. Want to read more books? Dedicate 20 minutes before bed to a good story.

Rituals keep things simple. They aren’t grand gestures; they’re daily nudges that keep your resolutions alive, even when motivation flickers.

Somewhere along the way, you’ll stumble. You’ll skip a workout, eat the cookie instead of the salad, or miss a whole week of journaling. It’s okay. Really, it is. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Celebrate every small win, no matter how insignificant it might seem. After all, inching forward is still moving forward.

Find your cheerleaders. Share your resolutions with someone who matters to you—a friend, a partner, or even an online community. They’ll remind you of your whys when you start to forget.

I’ve found that even an encouraging note taped to the bathroom mirror helps. Mine says, “Today is another chance.” It’s simple, but in the quiet moments between rinsing my face and brushing my teeth, the words land deeply.

There’s an undeniable truth about New Year’s resolutions—they often bring up parts of ourselves we don’t love. But here’s the thing about growth: It’s messy.

Forgive yourself for the missteps and remind yourself why you’re trying. You’re not stuck. You’re evolving, and evolution isn’t linear.

When it feels impossible to continue, close your eyes. Imagine what it will feel like when you achieve your goal. Hold onto that vision tightly. Picture the strength in your stride after months of consistent walks, the joy of hearing someone say, “Your writing has inspired me,” or the peace of knowing you’ve saved enough for that dream vacation.

There’s no roadmap to perfectly sticking to New Year’s resolutions. It’s less about the rules and more about the kindness you extend to yourself as you try, fail, and try again.

This year, whether your resolution is to drink more water, call loved ones more often, or finally pursue that passion project, remember you’re doing it because it matters to you. And that’s more than enough reason to keep going.

If you’re looking for a fellow dreamer, someone to cheer you on or brainstorm how-to’s for your goals, I’ll be here—always rooting for you. Happy New Year, friend.