The new year often brings a sense of motivation and desire for change, leading many to set ambitious resolutions. However, research shows that most resolutions fail by mid-February. This year, instead of setting yourself up for disappointment with unrealistic resolutions, focus on these 5 achievable goals that will lead to real, lasting change.

1. Start a Consistent Exercise Routine

Rather than resolving to suddenly run a marathon or hit the gym 7 days a week, set the goal of establishing a manageable exercise schedule you can stick to long-term. Aim for 20-30 minutes of activity 3-4 days per week. Consistency is key, so choose activities you enjoy and start slow. Over time, you can increase duration and frequency.

2. Improve Your Diet

Don't overwhelm yourself trying to suddenly eat perfectly. Set simple diet goals like eating more vegetables, making your meals more vitamin-rich, reducing snacking between meals, or drinking more water. Make gradual changes and focus on developing sustainable habits. Meal prep on weekends to have healthy options on hand.

3. Pick Up a New Hobby

Instead of a vague resolution to "learn something new," choose one new hobby you're excited about and set the goal to spend 30 minutes practicing it several times per week. Consistent practice of an enjoyable hobby provides a sense of fulfillment and enhances mental health.

4. Reduce Stress Through Self-care

Rather than trying to suddenly eliminate all stress, set an achievable goal to incorporate one small self-care activity into your daily routine, like drinking tea (or I prefer mushroom coffee), taking a walk, yoga, meditating, or journaling. (Don't forget that scent and skin care can help play a role as well.) Focus on stress reduction habits you can maintain long-term.

5. Improve Your Finances

Vague resolutions to "save more" often fail. Instead, set a specific, measurable goal like eliminating one monthly subscription you don't use or transferring a set amount each paycheck into a savings account. Automate transfers and builds habits that improve finances.

The key to success with New Year's goals is to make them realistic and sustainable. Focus on incremental progress through daily habits, rather than major overnight changes. Consistency, not perfection, is what matters. Follow these tips to set achievable goals that will lead to real personal growth all year long.