February has arrived. If you’re contemplating how to maintain your New Year’s resolutions, you’re in good company. Here are five strategies to help you succeed.

Imagine this: My spouse and I are fitting in workouts by power walking at the gym while our daughter practices with her swim team. Normally, these brisk walks get our heart rates up, and after several laps around the track, we’re feeling great. However, in January, we often find ourselves navigating through crowds of resolution-makers. All the cardio machines? Occupied. Dumbbells? Nonexistent. Yoga classes? Packed with downward dogs. Everyone is striving to achieve their New Year’s goals.

By mid-February, the atmosphere shifts dramatically. We’re back in our groove, the gym is less crowded, and those resolution enthusiasts? Most have disappeared. This cycle is common, whether for fitness or financial goals. Studies indicate that only 19% of individuals who set resolutions stick with them. So how can we improve our chances and keep our resolutions? It starts with adjusting our mindset. Here are five tips I share with clients to transform fleeting resolutions into lasting financial habits.

#1 Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Based on my observations, many people struggle with their New Year’s resolutions because they aim for overly ambitious changes too quickly. Is it really feasible to erase $50,000 in debt within a year? Likely not, unless you’re prepared to make extreme lifestyle changes. That target is just too daunting, demanding significant sacrifices. Because of its difficulty, maintaining motivation can be a daily challenge.

Former President Barack Obama once remarked, “Better is good.” I think this applies to finances as well. Take on only what you can manage. Instead of planning to eliminate all your debt in one year, set a more achievable target based on your situation. Gradually reduce your debt while allowing flexibility in your budget to avoid feelings of deprivation, paving your way toward financial freedom.

#2 Define Your Goals Clearly

A major obstacle to achieving New Year’s resolutions is their vagueness. What does “save money” or “lose weight” truly mean? Is shedding five pounds sufficient, or do you need to lose 10 or 20? The answer varies for everyone.

If you don’t specify what you mean and establish measurable criteria, you might find yourself questioning your progress. Eventually, you could abandon your resolution altogether. That’s why I urge my clients to be as detailed as possible. Instead of saying, “I’m going to save more money,” opt for, “I’ll save $50 weekly to fund a vacation next year.”

Additionally, I encourage my clients to articulate their motivations. For instance, one client undergoing infertility treatments uses baby bootie stickers on her credit cards and computer to keep her goals in sight. Every time she reaches for her card or considers an impulse purchase, she pauses to evaluate its importance.

#3 Embrace Small Wins

Just as overambitious goals can hinder your resolutions, so can a failure to recognize the significance of small changes. Every step, no matter how minor, counts towards your objective.

Consider salary increases. If you receive a 5% raise this year and allocate 1% of that to savings, it could amount to thousands over time. Over a decade, those savings—especially when invested in growth stocks—can accumulate significantly.

This mindset fosters disciplined, incremental growth. By concentrating on manageable changes instead of drastic overhauls, you will promote sustainable financial improvement without sacrificing your everyday comfort.

Identify some small adjustments you can implement this year. Here are a few ideas: Pack your lunch an extra time each month; cancel one streaming service; bring your own snacks to the cinema; or lower your energy expenses by $10 monthly.

#4 Combine Enjoyment with Responsibility

A helpful approach to implementing changes is to connect something you want to do with something you need to do. Behavioral scientists refer to this as “temptation bundling.” For instance, when exercising, allow yourself to listen to your favorite podcast or audiobook only during workouts.

This strategy can also apply to budgeting. Most people might not look forward to monthly budgeting meetings with their partner. However, if you pair this task with a delightful bottle of pinot noir and a delicious dessert, it can become more enjoyable. If you’re single, consider inviting a friend for budgeting sessions, making the process more engaging and less burdensome.

#5 Maintain Flexibility

No matter how thorough your planning is, life can throw curveballs. If you’re struggling to adhere to your resolutions, don’t be too hard on yourself; it happens to everyone. Remember, one setback doesn’t erase all your progress. The key is to get back on track. The sooner you do, the more likely you are to stay committed.

For instance, you might have been diligently saving throughout January and February, contributing to your emergency fund and a 529 plan for your children. But as your kids’ sports activities ramp up in March, you find yourself driving around constantly, leading to more dining out expenses that exceed your budget.

Just because one spending category changes doesn’t mean your entire plan is ruined. Look for adjustments elsewhere in your budget—perhaps shorten your summer vacation or opt for a less expensive hotel. Then, return to your saving strategy once things stabilize.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing special about January 1 that compels you to make significant changes. However, it’s a great time to initiate lasting financial improvements. Remember, achieving financial success isn’t about monumental leaps; it’s the steady, thoughtful actions that accumulate over time, creating genuine change regardless of the calendar date.