With every New Year, there lies a New Year’s resolution, and with every New Year’s resolution, there lies a sad resolutioner, succumbing to powdered donuts and faulty organizational skills. The cyclical cycle perpetuates each year.

Talk of prospective resolutions persist a week prior to January 1st, and maybe for a month after, only to slowly fizzle to a sweet nothing before you have the chance to say “No More Parties in LA.” So Kanye, you’ve shared your resolution with the world, committed to a monthly gym membership, downloaded a fitness app, and bought a fresh, new planner. What now? While you may think you’re safe from the post resolution slump, sticking to these five motivational musings is essential to maintaining your workout goals without a sweat.

Splurging on some new gym gear. There is nothing like the feeling of a workout when you are decked out in new gear. Clothing influences behavior, it boosts confidence and can make all the difference in your performance. It can be as simple as splurging on a fabulous 1Hydro Series Filtration Bottle, or channeling Kate Hudson with some colorful Fabletics leggings. When you look good, you feel good and what better way to feel your absolute best than by rocking out new beats or a weight belt that has you lifting twice as much. Treat yo self.

Early bird catches the worm. Or the best elliptical in the house. The wise say you should exercise in the morning, while you’re still half asleep. But in all seriousness, when you get into the routine of waking up early to catch a workout, you already cross off the most aggravating part of your to do list before your day has even begun. Prepare your clothes and gym bag the night before (or simply sleep in your clothes) and give yourself a morning pep talk. The feeling following an early morning run is well worth the struggle to roll out of bed. Once you are awake, the day becomes your oyster and you are ready to make it as productive as possible.

Two Words. Cardio. Kick. If you find it hard to self-motivate while in the gym and a minute on the treadmill feels like absolute forever, cardio kick class is the perfect way to trick your mind into doing a little cardio. Great playlists, group settings, and high energy guided routines will have you cycling your way to a six pack in no time, while having a fantastic time doing it.

Set Practical Goals. It is important to be as realistic as possible when setting a fitness goal. Keep in mind that this should be a short term goal that you can envision and work toward each day. By taking your workout regimen day by day, you are more likely to stay motivated and see results. Although it is always great to challenge yourself, setting the bar too high can result in discouragement and a lingering lack of motivation.

Come up with a killer playlist. Studies have shown that listening to music while working out distracts athletes of “bodily awareness,” which is the acknowledgement of pain and physical exertion. In addition to putting you in the zone, upbeat music takes the brain longer to process, allowing your mind a brief distraction.

Find a gym buddy who’s just as motivated, if not more. Setting up workout plans with a gym friend makes you not only accountable for yourself, but for someone else. While you may have trouble getting yourself through those gym doors, making plans to meet someone is a great way to ensure that you do not bail on your workout or your fitness plan. No one likes a flake.