Most people try to achieve their New Year’s Resolutions. But how many actually construct a solid game plan to help these goals come to fruition? It’s nice to say “This is the year I’m going to be promoted!”, or “I’m determined to go back to school.” I want to see each and every one of you achieve your heart’s desire, but in order to do this, you have to seriously give the tactics as much detail as you do the strategy. Below are some ideas to consider in reshaping your 2010 goals and resolutions:

Put it in writing: Nothing makes an idea more tangible than putting it in writing and actually seeing it. Not only should you put your top goals and resolution on paper, start the New Year by writing out some of the activities you will carry out on a monthly, weekly and daily bases to help you achieve success. I suggest writing out this much detail for at least the first month, and then based on how well they worked, carry them over (perhaps with some enhancements) to the following months, weeks and days.

Is the plan for your goal or resolution SMART?: By SMART I mean is your goal or resolution specific, measurable, action oriented, realistic, and time specific? When I recently reflected on my 2009 goals and results (I achieved 8 out of 10) I realized the two goals I didn’t achieve lacked aspects of this method.

Does your goal or resolution have the 4WH plan?: If it does, it contains the who, what, when, where, and how in the plan. Once you’ve determined if your resolution or goal is SMART, now ensure your plan has these elements. This may appear to be redundant with the second point, but I believe this part of the plan provides even greater detail, and greater possibility for success.

Is your goal or resolution flexible and simple?: It’s psychologically discouraging when you don’t achieve your plans. In order to avoid this, now is the time to play devil’s advocate and ask yourself some more key questions. (Many of these questions can be asked when you are determining if your goal or resolution is SMART, but here’s another chance to ensure you’re on the right path.) For example, if your goal is to return to school this year, but your hours at work have increased (leaving you little personal time), perhaps you can sign up for just one class on line, or an independent study course. Being flexible with your goals and keeping them simple can ensure you eventually achieve them.

Tell a friend or family member: Publicly stating your goals can help you become more accountable. If friends and family know this is the year you want to lose weight and become more fit, hopefully they will not only keep an eye on your activities and eating habits, but they will also be encouraging and help you find solutions when achieving this resolution becomes too tough alone.

We’ve all seen countless success stories where people achieved great personal or professional success. Besides being focused and passionate about their goals, they took them seriously and gave them fool proof plans. Make this the year your New Year’s resolution comes true!