Have you already broken your News Years Resolution to be more green?  46% stick to their resolutions for at least 6 months, but less than 20% of people stick to their resolutions after two years. Here are some tips to enhance the likelihood that you will keep your New Years Resolutions to be more environmentally conscious.

Plan Ahead

Create a realistic plan well before your New Year’s plunge. Practice self-control in other areas, in order to prepare yourself better. Gaze into your crystal ball to list possible obstacles in your way and ways to circumnavigate them.

Take Small Steps

If you pledged to stop driving your car, stopping it completely on January 1 is unrealistic.  Ease into it with car free days every week, then increase the frequency. Reduce other diversions or interruptions to help you concentrate on the task at hand.

Tell a Friend

Find like minded friends and family to share the pain. Get your better half to help you setup a resolution.  Check in with them regularly to see how you are progressing. Announce your plan to co-workers, relatives, friends, etc. You are making a bigger commitment this way

Change Surroundings

If you want to change, adjust the situations and locales that cause unwanted behaviors to occur.  If you want to eat better this year, avoid areas where fast food is prevalent.

Expect Failure

Expect, ahead of time, that you will fail and bounce back from problems,  rather than use them as excuses. If you are trying to save energy and then receive a higher energy bill, do not get discouraged, bear down and try harder to save. Make a plan for bouncing back from setbacks and slips.

Reward Yourself

A proverbial carrot or reward should be available if you meet certain milestones. On the other hand, a small slap on the wrist if you slip up, may be useful.

Being Happy During the Holidays

UC Berkeley scientists have studied how to be happy during the holidays and suggests people think about things in their lives that work well and being thankful for them. Being compassionate towards others and participating in family rituals that create togetherness also help increase happiness during the holidays.