You probably started the year with a few resolutions. You decided this is the year you will lose the weight, find a better job, quit smoking, get more organized, create better relationships, take a class, or get in shape.

If you are like many, you have already given up on some of your resolutions. So why is it that you have not stuck to your plan for change and success? The most common reason is that you are making EXCUSES! You are probably saying you are too busy, too tired or it is too difficult. If you want to be empowered in any area of your life, STOP MAKING EXCUSES and start making changes!

The reason we feel unempowered in any area is because we have either given away or not taken control of our power in that area of our life!!

Think about it.....whatever goal it is that you are not reaching, it is because of several of the following reasons:

1. You have not made a strong enough commitment
2. You do not have enough skill or education
3. You have given control of this area to someone else
4. You are ignoring this area of your life
5. You are not setting clear and firm boundaries
6. You have not overcome your fears
7. Your self doubt has stopped you from trying
8. You are too lazy
9. You haven't scheduled the time to work on it

So how come others can make resolutions and stick to them?
The reason others have succeeded in any endeavor you can think of, is because they DECIDED and COMMITED to it, NO MATTER WHAT! They stopped making excuses and blaming others and started wherever they were and took it ONE STEP AT A TIME toward achieving their goal. You can do the same thing and will succeed!

Listen to what you are saying to yourself. Is your self talk giving you the excuses you need to keep doing something you know you shouldn't do like overspending, overeating or smoking?

Does your self talk keep you from doing what you should, like going back to school, leaving an abusive relationship, finding a new job, or getting in shape?

Pick ONE thing you want to change in your life, and stop making excuses why you are not doing it, write the goal down (in the present tense), break it down into doable steps and like Nike says, "JUST DO IT!!"

The person who climbs Mt. Everest, loses 100 pounds, creates a business empire, or even learns to play the piano did not succeed in one day, one week or one month. They committed to beginning where they were and to taking regular action steps toward their goals.

Don't give up on your resolutions, commit to them! Stop the excuses, and find a way to take mini steps daily toward your goals, NO MATTER WHAT. Change your self talk, and be a problem solver to find the time and energy to stick to your goals!