For many years, my family had an idea that eventually evolved into a goal of moving to a different house (one with a better layout for our needs). We finally took action last month and will be spending the holidays in our new home.

The delay my family experienced in taking action forces me to ask: how long would you pursue a goal without making any significant strides toward the end game?

As we move forward in 2014, many of you will be making resolutions and establishing goals for the New Year. Are the goals realistic? Are they attainable? Will these goals help to improve your life?

The following are simple steps to help you achieve your goals:

1. Focus on one at a time – start with the one most important to you.

2. Tell others your goal so that they can help keep you focused.

3. Put them in writing and post them where you can see them so you review them often and keep them fresh in your mind.

4. Visualize yourself achieving it.

5. Work on your goals daily.

6. Reward yourself when you hit your targets / keep yourself motivated.

7. Pick yourself back up when you fall short (it will happen).

8. Have faith in yourself (you can do this)!

The end of one year and the beginning of another is a great time to reflect on the past and prepare for the future. What are you doing today that will prepare you for success in 2014?