It is that time of year again when many people resolve to improve their lifestyles, their health and countless other aspects of their lives. Many if not most of these good intentions, however, get derailed within a few weeks. There are many websites that can help you not only to make those resolutions but also to attain success in keeping them.

Firstgov (the US Government's Official Web Portal) has published a webpage containing U.S. government resources to help motivate and support your good intentions. It provides information about such popular topics as saving money, losing weight, getting a better job and a better education, reducing stress and volunteering to help others. The University of Maryland Medical Center has published a guide to help you maintain your motivation and avoid common pitfalls for resolutions involving health. To assist your children to make appropriate resolutions, see 20 Healthy New Year's Resolutions for Kids, part of the American Academy of Pediatrics website. Their resolutions are grouped by age category (preschoolers, kids 5- to 12-years-olds and teenagers). In addition, this site links to Tips for a Healthier New Year.

To keep up with those New Year's resolutions, researchers find commitment to be the secret of success. A study conducted at the University of Washington sought to understand the factors that best predict success in keeping New Year's resolutions. The researchers state that to be successful:
• Have a strong initial commitment to make a change.
• Have coping strategies to deal with problems that may arise.
• Keep track of your progress and seek feedback.

The researchers add that ingredients for setting yourself up for failure include:
• Waiting until the last minute to make your resolutions.
• Reacting to the holiday and making your resolutions based on what is on your mind at that time.
• Framing your resolutions as absolutes by saying, "I will never do that again."

The researchers add that should one not achieve success, do not blame oneself. "Instead, look at the barriers that were in your way. See how you can do better the next time and figure out a better plan to succeed. You do get to try again and can make behavior changes throughout the year, not only at New Year's."

Please let us know how you make out with your resolutions. Cheers to 2007!