It's a fact.  Nearly half of American adults make New Year's resolutions year-after-year, and most of these individuals have already forgotten or given up on them 6 month's in.  So, what can you do to increase your chances of success?  We have compiled a few tips, but first, here are some of the most common resolutions:

• Lose weight and/or get fit
• Reduce or eliminate debt
• Eat healthier
• Stop drinking alcohol
• Quit smoking
• Save money
• Self-help/Mental development
• Learn a new skill

Did we mention your's?  Whether we did or not, the tips below should help  improve the possibility of successfully achieving your goal this year.  You made the resolution for a reason, so KEEP it!

• Make sure your goal is within reach - If you set a goal that is very difficult to reach, you almost guarantee failure.  If you are trying to completely eliminate your debt, and you are barely making ends meet as it is, a better goal may be to come up with a truly reachable amount to reduce it by, and work towards it.

• Come up with a plan, and stick with it - When you are setting a goal for something that has to be met over time, such as losing weight, or saving money, break it down and come up with a plan.  Figure out your ultimate goal and chop it into monthly or weekly portions.  Losing 100 lbs this year sounds pretty huge, but 2 lbs per week is within reach.  Also, be sure to keep a log of your progress, so you know where you stand.  Write down the details of exactly what you are trying to achieve.

• Tell friends and family your plan - If possible, don't keep your resolution a secret.  If you tell those that are close to you what you are trying to do, you will have a better chance.  Not only will you want yo succeed, but your friends and family can help support and motivate you.  Even better if you can get someone to partner up with you - get a gym membership with a friend and make each other go!

•  Restart if needed - If you happen to fall off the wagon, don't get too down on yourself.  Just start right back up! New Year's is just the start... It takes time to achieve most goals.