10 Mistakes That Will Ruin Your New Years Diet Resolution

1. You have an end goal, but no game plan Bad diet resolutions have one thing in common; they are way too general. Instead of saying, "I want to lose weight" set smaller, achievable goals for yourself so you can easily track your progress. Work towards goals like eating a balanced, healthy breakfast every day or only eating one piece of chocolate a night.

2. You let one slip up get to you So you had a bad day at work and binged on half a chocolate cake. Don't sweat it and don't hate yourself. It happens to everyone, don't forget all the progress you've made. Start the next day fresh and healthy.

3. Too many limitations Diets usually seem to tell you what you can't do, like "don't eat too many sweets" or "stay away from refined grains." Instead of focusing on all the limitations try to spin your diet in a positive way, like "double up on fruits and vegetables." When you focus on what you can do, you won't feel so tied down.

4. You go at it alone If no one else knows about your new healthy living plan, it can be hard to stick with it. When you know someone else is counting on your to complete a challenge you are more likely to do it. Your special person can be a family member, friend, or even a journal.

5. Your plan is too complicated Some diets are super complicated. You can only eat certain foods with other foods, you can only eat a special brand, you have to constantly track your progress, heart rate, etc. Diets don't need to have a bunch of rules to be effective.

6. You think your only option is salad Sometimes heading to the salad bar is not the healthiest option. Most restaurant salads load up on cheese, croutons, processed meat, and fatty dressing. Plus salads, usually don't keep you full for very long. Go for a healthy soup and sandwich instead.

7. You never snack To keep you metabolism high, you should try to eat every three to four hours. Shoot for 6 small meals instead of 3 big meals. Dieting doesn't mean starving yourself.

8. You forget about water Lots of fad diets come with sugary shakes and drinks. But a bunch of water is going to help you reach your goal much faster. Water can help you manage your appetite AND it's zero calories!

9. You don't cook enough You can't rely on packaged processed meals when you're trying to lead a healthier lifestyle. If you are scared of the kitchen now is your time to face that phobia. When you cook, you are in charge of exactly what you eat. Plus, it's super easy to make substitutions.

10. You don't personalize your meals to your schedule Are you a late night snacker? It could be because you are eating too early. If you eat dinner at 6 but stay up until midnight, chances are you are going to get hungry or bored. It could help if you rethink dinner and eat a little later.