A Step-By-Step Guide For Mapping Out (And Achieving!) Your 2017 Goals

It's here! You've vision boarded, journaled, dreamed, and maybe just simply thought about what you'd like to achieve this year. Word on the street is that 81 percent of resolutions fail1, and a number of us start losing steam even within the first week of January. One of the main reasons we don't achieve our goals? We get busy and forget about them! Here's one foolproof, step-by-step way to make sure that doesn't happen again this year:

What are the first things you think of, or what have you already written down? If something seems random, note it anyway, as it could be your subconscious peeking out. Then purposefully move on to other "outside" areas: health, hobbies, relationships, love, work, etc.

What qualities would you like to work on cultivating this year? Have you been hearing repetitive feedback from those around you? Maybe it's time to listen better or to say what you mean. Pick at least one.

Then, you'll write text for each image. In the text for each image remind yourself of why this is a positive addition to your life, "A reliable car that gives me freedom to go wherever I please." Also, articulate specifics that'll help you focus over the year, like if you're working on bringing new relationships into your life, what kind of qualities do you want in them? Warmth, ambition, kindred interest in Star Wars? Yes, get that specific.

It can be easy to account for others' opinions if you think it'll be seen, if only unconsciously. This is about your life, your goals; this is about YOU. (Though if you're involved in a team, this is a great group exercise, too!)

The reason most people didn't achieve their dreams? They were busy doing other stuff and forgot. This year it's on you: Don't forget!