If your goal is to become all God wants you to be this year, then more resolutions aren't the answer. Based on last year's track record, you know just about how long they last. But don't let past performance stand in the way of your future plans. Here's an important key: if you focus only on the end result, you'll get overwhelmed. Tackle one thing at a time. Start with a specific area - even a difficult one. Golfer Arnold Palmer said: 'The most rewarding things in life are often ones that look like they can't be done!' Here's a four-point plan to get you started: (1) No more excuses. By saying, 'That's just the way I am,' or 'Everybody does it,' you rationalize disobedience and diminish conviction. Don't say that anymore! (2) Set manageable goals. Approach your target with a rifle, not a shotgun. Instead of reaching for everything, grasp only those things that are important to your personal growth this year. (3) Be reasonable. It takes twenty-one days for a habit to take root. Setbacks are part of the process. If you get off track, just get back on again! Perseverance is the secret! (4) Be optimistic. Paul says, 'We are saved by hope' (Romans 8:24). Keep reminding yourself that, 'with God's help I can do it,' and you'll discover you can! Change is painful; not changing is even more painful! Remember, Paul didn't say he'd arrived, he said, 'I'm working toward that day' (Phil 3:13). So, what are you waiting for? Get cracking!