Monitored blood sugar level? Check. Walked the dog? Check. Followed 2008 New Year’s resolution? Oops! Chances are your New Year’s resolution has fallen to the wayside. In fact, most Americans have already let theirs go. But even with the best intentions, how can you squeeze in anything else with all you do every day?

Luckily, the diabetes management skills you’ve learned (such as monitoring your progress and setting and following schedules) help you here too. Just remember, when you decide to change your life isn’t nearly as important as how you tackle the task.

Check out five simple reminders from Everyday Eating to help reach your goal:

1. Decide what you want to do
Make a resolution or two regarding diabetes, but don’t forget to punch up the year with resolutions that also focus on fun.

• Train to participate in a diabetes charity walk. You’ll shape up while doing the cause a world of good. If participating is not possible, consider volunteering.
• Become a lifelong learner. Fine-tune your piano-playing skills or become a chess champ. Check out the library and the Web to start exploring your passions.

2. Think specific, realistic and reasonable
Tangible goals are best. Decide “I want to lose 15 pounds in the next six months” instead of “I want to lose weight.” Similarly, instead of resolving to eat more home-cooked meals, make a point to eat in four nights a week.

3. Log your progress
Don’t just think about your goal—put pen to paper. Write it down and post it on the bathroom mirror. This little reminder will inspire you every time you look at it. Be sure to keep a journal of your challenges and triumphs. If you happen to get off track, it will better equip you for next time. You always have another chance to get back on the road to success.

4. Try team work
Keep it fun by teaming up with friends who have similar goals. Plan exercise dates three times a week; you’ll be more likely to get to the gym if a buddy is counting on you! If your friends aren’t making resolutions, tell them about yours and ask for help or inspiration. They’ll likely be happy to do it.

5. Celebrate
Remember to reward yourself throughout the year! Whip up one of the many yummy—yet healthy—recipes on EverydayEating.com to celebrate your milestones along the way. You can also put $5 in a jar for each week you follow your resolution. After a few months, go spend your well-deserved cash on something fun!

Don’t let the rest of 2008 get away from you. Tomorrow, begin your new day off with a new start! You’ll be amazed at how good it feels to work toward a goal—and accomplish it.