The beginning of a new year always seems like a fresh start and an excellent chance to break old habits and build new routines that will help you improve as an individual. However, resolutions are far easier said than done.

According to a study by experts at the University of Scranton, 23 percent of people abandon their resolutions barely two weeks into the new year. In addition, only 19 percent of those who make resolutions stick to them in the long run.

Among the most popular resolutions are to lose weight, eat a healthy diet, exercise frequently, make better financial decisions, quit smoking, and spend more time with family.

A study published in Current Biology said that people are more inclined to repeat pleasurable activities because we get a shot of dopamine (the feel-good neurochemical) when we approach previously-pleasurable activities. 

Even the sight of a tasty dessert induces the release, which might obstruct your efforts to choose the veggies you've vowed to eat instead.

However, University of Scranton psychology professor John C. Norcross, who has studied resolutions for decades, weighs in that when both groups have comparable goals and motivation, those who believe in themselves are ten times more likely to change through a New Year's resolution than those who do not.

To help you beat the odds, here are the following tips you may apply in reaching your new year's resolutions.

Choose a specific and realistic goal

Instead of choosing an unclear objective, select something more definite that you can really aim for. In other words, pick a clear, attainable goal. Maybe you want to write a book. That's great, but you'll be more likely to meet your goal if you commit to writing for 30 minutes every day, five days a week. Be clear about the activities you'll take, not simply the final goal.

Set a plan

You might begin by writing out your goal, developing a list of actions you might take to attain that goal, and identifying any potential roadblocks. You'll be better prepared to adhere to your commitment and conquer any obstacles if you exactly know what you want to accomplish and the problems you could face.

Avoid repeating past mistakes

If you decide to pursue the same goals you've attempted in the past, take some time to assess your prior results. Which techniques were the most successful? Which of them was the least effective? What has kept you from keeping your resolution in previous years?

Consider making minor changes to your resolution to make it more achievable. You will be more likely to achieve actual results this year if you change your approach.

Go easy on yourself

Those bad habits you're attempting to break generally took years to form, so they're unlikely to alter in a matter of days, weeks, or months. Be kind to yourself. Recognize that working on your resolution is a process. Even if you make a few mistakes, you may reset and continue on your path to your objective.

Establish accountability

Make a list of your goals; this will help you hold yourself accountable. Furthermore, discuss your objectives with others and encourage them to check in with you and provide feedback.

For example, if you want to avoid procrastinating on work assignments, ask a coworker to offer you a push when they notice you getting distracted. 

Stay inspired

During the first few days of a new year, you will most likely feel confident and inspired to achieve your goals. Since you haven't experienced any difficulty or temptation as a result of modifying your behavior, making this adjustment may appear all too simple.

When you're in such a situation, remind yourself why you're doing it. Consider or make a list of what you stand to gain by reaching your objective. Finding sources of inspiration might help you stay motivated when circumstances are rough.