We set ourselves up for failure with unrealistic goals and the idealism of turning over a new leaf. But is it so wrong to want to change things we find unhealthy, unproductive, or even destructive?

Absolutely not. The desire to better ourselves is a good thing. To make better choices, to strive for a more meaningful life, to live healthier -- all of these things are worthy and attainable goals. The place where we get stuck (and we all do) lies somewhere between our perceptions of what is reality and what is idealism.

For example, let's say you're a working woman and the mother of four growing children. Between the job, your husband, and your children, you've learned the art of getting things done quickly and with as little stress as possible. Short cuts and bad habits over the years have made a mess of your stamina, your physique, and your personal time. You not only have a few extra pounds, you have little time for exercise.

If one of your New Year's resolutions is to lose 20 pounds by March, how successful do you think you'll be in achieving that goal? If you're one of the millions of Americans with similar, noble intentions, the chances of success are slim. Or you might achieve part of your goal, only to slip back into the easy sling of years of habit-forming behavior.

But there is hope.

Although the resolution to lose 20 pounds in three months may seem like a hefty chore for our working mother and others just like her, the key is to start small, focusing on the whole picture in order to adjust its pieces. To lose weight and live healthier, we first need to make goals that fit our individual lifestyle.

Here are 5 things you can do to take that first step:

• One: Resolve to Include the Whole Family
• Two: Make Better, Healthier Eating Choices
• Three: Choose One Physical Activity the Family Can Do
• Four: Find One Hour a Week to Have for Yourself
• Five: Turn Off the Television One Night of the Week

Simply by making these minor changes to our daily routine, we can ease the demands of everyday life and reclaim our mental and physical health.

Now that's not so difficult, is it?