Forty percent of Americans set New Year’s resolutions, but only 9 percent achieve them according to The Washington Post.

New Year’s resolutions are a controversial concept– some people view them as a way to establish a newer, better version of themselves. However, many cynics think they’re a gimmick. Why wait for an overly symbolic day on a calendar to make change?

Yeah, it’s true. If you want to make a change in your life, the best time to start is now, whether it be January 1 or the middle of the year. However, think about where you were one year ago today.

You’re in an entirely different place. You have likely grown mentally and emotionally. You’ve built knowledge from your experiences of the last 365 days and undergone change. Using that knowledge, you can prepare for the next year and better it. You can’t tell me that the idea of the fresh start given to us by the new year isn’t refreshing.

I am pro-resolutions. Sometimes, it’s better to just go by feelings and what makes the most sense to over logic.

4 rules achieve your goals

• Break your goal down into several smaller, more realistic targets

Smaller, more realistic goals are not only more achievable, but keep you more motivated. It sparks a cycle– the immediacy of the results makes you more motivated thus causing more results.

• Put your goals in writing

Physically writing out your goals makes them seem more real and tangible, adding accountability– but don’t stop there. Make a step-by-step game plan as to what it will take to achieve your goal. This outline will add clarity and help keep you on track at times when you may feel lost or demotivated. The visual representation of your progress

• Build a support system

Having other people either aware of your goal and helping push you towards it or even working alongside you is one of the best ways to work towards a goal. The network around you provides extra drive and a sense of teamwork.

• Stick to it

Chances are, you will plateau at some point. You can’t let this get you down. While it’s corny, it’s true: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. If you give up, you’ll obviously never achieve your goals. You have to be dedicated and determined to making change in your life.