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Each year I write my New Year’s Resolutions in a Moleskine Notebook I use to jot down ideas throughout the year. When I flip it open my New Year’s Resolutions are right there staring me in the face. (I prefer the reporter style notebook which is bound at the top instead of the side).

I try to choose goals that are attainable. For instance I don’t specify something like: ‘Write a novel’, because it’s too general. You need to do something on a regular basis for a month to create a habit. Some writers mark a calender on days they write to keep track. This is a great way to make yourself feel guilty, especially if you place it where you see it every day. Guilt is a powerful motivator. You can use this technique for just about everything.

Here are my resolutions for 2012:

1. Establish a routine to create a stronger mind & body.
A healthy body is a healthy mind. I want to work out more this year so I’m going to attempt to guilt myself into exercising more.

2. Live life more creatively. I will make time to be more creative and write on a regular basic.
This year I’m going to hammer myself on writing regularly. Sorry Facebook and Twitter, but I have to cut somewhere.

3. Reduce distractions in my life that keep me from my goals.
Work gets in the way, taking the kids to hockey practice gets in the way, life gets in the way. There are plenty of important things that get in the way, most aren’t.  Set priorities and stick to it. There are no excuses.