Ashleigh Jensen is a popular wellness and lifestyle blogger from the Sunshine Coast, who has studied a variety of practical lifestyle coaching methods from the world’s top health and wellness experts, trained in more than 100 dietary theories and is currently studying health promotion. Ashleigh also inspires people through her Instagram page, sharing snaps of delicious vegan food and her outdoor lifestyle on the beautiful Sunshine Coast.

Self improvement is a shared hobby, often leading us to make New Year's resolutions and goals throughout January. While we may have the best intentions, according to the University of Scranton, only eight per cent of us actually achieve the resolutions or goals that we set ourselves at the beginning of the year.

Here are a few easy steps you can take to land yourself in the group of achievers.

1. Set SMART goals

You may have heard of this term before but do you always apply the rule? For goals to be powerful, they should be designed to be SMART. Setting SMART goals simply means setting goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely. Personally, I use SMART goals when setting specific fitness goals. With clearer intentions to begin with I am more likely to stay on track.
Tip: Instead of saying "I want to get fit" you could say "I want to be able to run 5km without stopping by 30 June, 2016".

2. Baby steps add up

Instead of simply setting yourself a deadline, try creating a schedule to guide your daily habits in a direction that is moving you forward towards your end goal. By taking small steps in the direction you wish to go will help you stay accountable and your goals be more attainable.
Tip: Create a designated time slot over the weekend to prepare healthy meals or times you will allocate to exercise throughout the week.

3. Be mindful of competing goals

You may have competing goals without even realising. For example, your goal might be to buy a new car however, you may also have a goal to save money. You may have a goal to work more efficiently but also have a goal to do what you want, when you want.
Tip: Be mindful of your priorities and set your goals in order of relevance, importance and attainability.

4. Write it down

The physical act of writing down a goal makes it real and tangible. Be aware of the language you use. Replace "I want to" with "I will" or "I don't want" with "I want to have/be/do".
Tip: Place your written down goal in a visible place as a daily reminder of your intentions.