Did you keep last year's resolutions?

Objectives in the rear-view mirror may be closer than they appear. (iStock)

A year ago today, you may have been looking down at a list of resolutions and feeling quite optimistic.

But now that 2012 is officially over, we're wondering: can you proudly cross some or all of those goals off your list, or is the year at the top the only thing worth scratching out?

If you're looking at the same old resolutions for 2013, you're not alone. In fact, you may have encountered some very common pitfalls:

• Resolutions are usually too vague, reflecting a general wish and not an attainable goal.
• We take on too many resolutions at a time, and when it comes to all or nothing -- many of us go with the latter.
• Even if we hit the ground running, it's hard to stay motivated, especially after we falter.
  
  

But there are people who manage to turn old standbys into success stories, and they often:

• Break their goals into smaller, measurable steps.
• Periodically reward themselves for making progress.
• Announce their plans publicly or work with others.
• Focus on the benefits of the change instead of the difficulties.

Do any of these look familiar? (iStock) Perhaps you are happy with what you see in the rear view mirror. You did read more books last year, or you have started eating better, or you do see old friends more often.

Have you taken the time to reflect on what you've done right?

If you're proud of what you accomplished in 2012, or any year prior to it, what advice would you give to others who are struggling?

How did you manage to shake that bad habit, or seriously commit to a better routine?

Is the start of a new year really the best time to make a life change, in your experience?



(This survey is not scientific. Results are based on reader's replies.)