The average New Year’s resolution ends January 4th.

Seriously, that’s pathetic.

Every year millions of Americans pledge to start the new year off right by making New Year’s resolutions. We get all motivated, buy a year-long gym membership, and work out hard for anywhere from 1 day to 6 weeks, then we crash and burn. Why does this happen year after year? Because you don’t have a plan! Here are some key things to consider doing when trying to reach your health goals in 2010:

1)   Ask Why before What – before you decide what you need to do to lose weight, you need to ask why you need to do it. The why is the inspiration that will turn your goal from something you want to do into something you are committed to do. Some good Why’s are: I’m going to lose weight so I can be around for my daughters wedding. I’m going to be committed to exercising 3x a week so I can go to the amusement park with my grandkids. I am going to stay fit so I can do the hobbies I love, like golfing, at 85 years old and not be stuck in a nursing home. I want to be healthy because my body is a temple and I want to honor God with my body. So write down your Why’s, and then it’s time for the What.

2)   Have a plan – this is what you’re going to do to achieve your goals. In order to lose 10lbs I am going to exercise 3x a week for 30 minutes, doing 20 minutes of weights and 10 minutes of burst training. I am going to follow a certain eating plan and have two vacations meals a week so I don’t break down.

3)   Get a partner or join a group – We are meant to go through life together, so joining a health community and having someone hold you accountable is key.

4)   Write down your Why’s, Goals, and Plan and then post them somewhere you can see daily. Putting it up on your bathroom mirror is probably the best place.

So let me hear from all of you. Comment below on WHY you are going to get healthy this year!