Out with the old, in with the new.

With the coming of a new year, people often set goals for the next 365 days that can be nearly impossible to maintain.

In America, 40 percent of people make New Year’s resolutions, but only 8 percent are successful in achieving them, according to Forbes. However, there are ways for people to keep the goals they set.

Here are some suggestions to make improvements in 2017. Whether it is losing weight or becoming more organized, this list will help.

1. Use an app.

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it is easy to forget to keep a New Year’s Resolution.

Even more, people often do not prioritize those goals.

Fortunately, there are thousands of apps to assist people in keeping their resolution. For example, the “Hello Wallet” app is helpful for those hoping to save money in the New Year. The app calculates how much money someone spends and warns users when they are close to exceeding the set limit.

Other apps such as the “Reminders” app for the iPhone can be great tools to remind users to complete tasks for New Year’s resolutions.

2. Imagine the outcome.

The quest to accomplish goals for the new year can seem endless and pointless. Imagining the benefits of continuing the process can serve as motivation.

For those who’s goal is to lose weight, they can envision themselves 10 pounds lighter which may motivate them to continue their work outs.

People can also have a picture in a place they will look every day. This is great to do if someone is trying to save money for a dream car.

3. Keep good company.

As a child, my grandmother always told me that “attitudes are contagious; make sure you have a good one.”

The same applies to the company people keep. If someone always has a pessimistic outlook, this person can influence those who have an opposite outlook.

If someone wants to stop smoking in 2017, the presence of another smoker can hinder any progress. A better option would be for the individual to associate with another friend group.

4. Plan ahead.

As college students, our lives are chronically chaotic. Spending time studying or with friends will often be superior than working on New Year’s resolutions.

By planning ahead, students can schedule a time to do the activity while simultaneously making time for other priorities.

Planning ahead also has benefits such as insuring communication with others and monitoring expenses.

5. Use social media.

My goal for 2017 is to get fit. I learned using social media can be inspirational.

I follow fitness and health pages on Instagram, and these pages serve as motivation for me to become more active.

I see the perks of living a healthy lifestyle through the photos online, and this encourages me to meet my New Year’s resolution.