This year DO NOT to make a New Year’s resolution. You read that correctly–DON’T make a resolution. They don’t work. Plain and simple. Take a look at the definition of resolution:

See the inherent problem? It’s vague, it’s ambiguous, and there’s nothing to sink your teeth into. It’s just a decision, not a plan of action.

More than 70% of people who make resolutions don’t keep them, and more than 40% never even start! Things don’t magically change on January 1st. You don’t suddenly become a different person, one who can stick to a diet or exercise program, if you never have in the past.

That’s why this year, you should skip the resolution, and make a #REALsolution.

Follow this simple 4-step process to create a #REALsolution that will set you up for success all year long.

Step 1:
Set a clear, attainable goal. Think of exactly what you want to achieve, and be specific. Instead of, “I want to lose weight,” decide that, “I will lose 10 pounds by April 5.” Instead of “I want to eat clean,” decide that, “I will eat 7 servings of fruits and vegetables each day and I will try one new healthy recipe each week.”

Step 2:
Make a solid plan for achieving your goal. Choose a fitness program or nutrition plan to help you get there. Or, commit to using a program you already own, use your gym membership, or exercise on your own at home!

Step 3:
Download this accountability contract. Sign it. Post it somewhere you will see it every day. Snap a photo of the contract and post it on Instagram. Make sure to tag #REALsolution and @beachbodyhq. We’ll pick 5 winners to win a program of your choice, one each week from December 26–February 1.

Step 4:
Join my next Fitness Challenge Group. This will help you check in daily, get encouragement, and stay accountable.

When you’ve reached your goal, repeat this 4-step process again to continue to improve!

Here are examples of what my accountability contract looks like: