There’s a craze this time of year to write down a list of resolutions and “I will do this…be this…stop this…” But interestingly, most resolutions don’t last very long. If I really had a goal that was important to me, wouldn’t I start it now instead of waiting until January 1? Can’t we begin at any time?

Of course!

Instead of resolutions, the women in our family choose a word for the year. I know this is popular concept, but I really thought my aunt had started the whole shebang.

We choose a word to encourage us, make us more well-rounded, or improve a character trait. This has proved helpful and the results are measured in small wins throughout the year. My aunt often has her word engraved on a piece of jewelry, which is super cool, and I wish I had done that for all my words.

I tend to keep words for longer than a year, so mine include Assertive (because I won’t ever send anything back in a restaurant and I hate to return items), Domestic, and Standards, which is my word again for this year.

Along with my word though, I like to set goals. I’ve gone so far as to make a goal- or vision board with pretty contact paper, stickers, and printouts, and I’m hardly crafty. It was super fun, though, so I’m gonna make a new one for 2017. I’ll be sure to share it in our Facebook group once I make it. If you create one, I’d love for you to share yours!

Whether you choose to do a word or go with traditional resolutions, here are a few quick tips to make 2016 awesome:

1. Write your goals down.

I’ve got lots of dreams that are too frightening and wonderful to say out loud, and I’m sure you have dreams deep in your heart’s secret place, too. Even if you don’t post your dreams online for the world to see, write them in a journal or on a notecard taped to your mirror. Statistically, you’re more likely to follow through.

2. Keep your goals within your control.

I can’t guarantee how many places will book me to speak, but I can control how many venues I contact. I can’t control how many articles I can sell, but I can control how many magazines I query. I can’t guarantee that I’ll lose 5,000 pounds in a year, but I can control my food portions and how many times I get to the gym.

We can’t control what other people do, so by creating a goal that is focused on your action instead of the result, you will have more “wins.”

3. Don’t share every goal.

This is an interesting one. Studies have shown that by sharing a goal, our brain releases the hormone, or sensation of satisfaction, that we’ve already achieved the goal. This can hinder us from reaching our dreams, instead of giving us the accountability we’re seeking.

On the other hand, accountability can be critical. So pick one person who can check up on you to ensure you’re endure through the hard times.

[reminder]What are some of your resolutions? Do you choose a word for the year?[/reminder]

Bethany Jett is an award-winning author of The Cinderella Rule, speaker, ghostwriter, and founder of JETTsetter Ink, a consulting and editing company. She has written for numerous publications, created the My Moments Planner, Serious Writer Companion, and is the founder of Serious Writer Academy and the Build Your Brand Program. Her newest work, Through the Eyes of Hope releases January 2017.

Bethany is a military wife and all-boys-mama who is addicted to suspense novels and all things girly. She writes on living a brilliant life at BethanyJett.com. Connect with her on Facebook, Pinterest,  Instagram (new profile), and Twitter.