As we enter the yearly time where we analyze where we are and where we want to go with a new calendar year on the horizon, a University of Illinois Extension nutrition expert has some tips on not only aiming for practical goals but to maintain that momentum.

Caitlin Mellendor says to be specific, make it measurable and give yourself time limits to meet those goals. She explains often we can make goals too broad.

While it's easy to put a goal in place, Mellendorf indicates it is important we continue to ask ourselves "how?" in regards to achieving those goals. She adds to have contingencies in place if you cannot meet a specific goal on a given day.

If weight loss is part of your New Year's resolutions, Mellendorf says there can be long term traps to this goal. She explains weight loss after a certain period will plateau but once that happens, it becomes about sustained positive and healthy habits.