Tips to stick to your New Year's goals

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Dropping a few pounds is the number one New Year's resolution year after year. Studies show that after six months, 60 percent of people give up on losing the weight.

But with a plan of action, you can set yourself up for success. FitStrongandSexy.com creator Amanda Russell says to make resolutions personal, realistic, and specific.

"When you have a goal, you need to know exactly what it is. I would recommend thinking about something that is tangible. I am going to train for a 5K Race. So, now we've got the goal, so what's the action plan to get there? And give yourself little milestones to go off of," Russell said.

Creating small goals as part of a larger goal also helps create a sense of accomplishment along the journey.

"Planning ahead is important in order to stick to them. We all have 24 hours in a day. We decide how to use them," Russell said.

Russell says schedule workouts in a calendar and determine the workout plan the night before so you know exactly what you will be doing.

"Put your shoes by the door because I'm telling you right now, if you have to walk by your shoes because you've slept in, it doesn't feel so great," Russell said.

In addition to working out, you'll need to eat healthy too! Meal plan and pack healthy lunches ahead of time to save you time and money. Russell also says to keep junk food out of the house.

"It's easier to not buy it than to have it in the house," Russell said.

Another factor that is going to help you achieve your goal is to stay accountable.

"By just expressing in writing - and by writing, this might sound crazy but it is 2015 - I mean social media. Put it on your Facebook page or send out an email telling what you're doing," Russell said.

Another way to stay accountable is to keep a journal because you'll be tracking your progress.

"If you don't know where you've started, then how do you know how far you've come?" Russell said.

It also helps to have a buddy! If you know someone is waiting for you to work out, you're less likely to skip it.

Russell's tips will apply to other resolutions like organization or finance too.