It’s a new year and a whole new decade. A time for new beginnings! Many of us have become clear with the changes we need to make in order to feel better. With the best of intentions we set new goals with the hope to follow through with them this time. How is it that some people follow through with their goals while others fail?

The word ‘fail’ is the problem. Attitude is everything when starting something new. According to researchers, it takes 21 days to start a new habit. When we embark on something new, there will always be setbacks. The key is to practice forgiveness with yourself, because mastery doesn’t happen overnight—it’s about progress.

Here are 7 tips to achieve your goals:

1. Some people benefit with radical change that may appear extreme, while others benefit from “leaning” into the direction they want to go. Know yourself and honor the method that will support your success.

2. Keep your goal(s) close to your heart and quiet, so they aren’t diluted by the thoughts and opinions of others. Your motivation for achieving this goal is to better your life.

3. Mistakes are going to happen because of a myriad of reasons like your environment, the situation, old habits, influence, forgetfulness, emotions, stress, and more. Remember that each and every day you can “Choose Again!” This is progress.

4. Perfection doesn’t exist. Notice your inner dialogue. If your actions or choices weren’t great yesterday and you notice your inner voice is full of guilt and shame, change your inner script with a more loving dialogue: “I’m still learning,” “I can always choose to do better today” and “It’ll get easier with practice.”

5. Keep it fun and inspired so it’s something you want to continue doing.

6. Choose the company of people who lift you up, inspire you and make you want to stay on this path.

7. Lastly, try tracking your reflections, thoughts, feelings, frustrations, mistakes, and progress in a journal, so that you have a contrast to when you first began and the motivation to continue.

After 21 days you will have started a new habit, and you will feel proud of yourself. It doesn’t matter when you start, you can always choose to change for the better. Keep going. You’re full of infinite potential.

Join my Radiant Membership to begin your 21 day Yoga practice.