Don't despair, however; there are strategies you can keep in mind now to help you keep those resolutions well into the New Year.

It is predicted that more than three-quarters of all women between the ages of 25 and 54 make diet and weight-loss resolutions each year, according to a nationwide survey sponsored by Gardenburger Inc. Nearly nine out of 10 respondents reported only occasional or no success, while almost half lost little or actually gained weight instead, the survey found.

New Year's Resolutions also are short-lived, it said. Sixty-nine percent of respondents admitted they abandon their resolutions after only three months. Part of the problem is the belief by many people that resolutions "should be hard to keep or they are not worth making."

"That's a recipe for failure," said Pat Baird, a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant who supervised the survey.

"People set unrealistic goals, then load up their diets with foods they don't like," Baird continued. "They will inevitably be dissatisfied, hungry all the time, and resort to bingeing."

The majority of respondents blamed lack of motivation and will power as the primary barrier to keeping a diet or weight-loss resolution. Other barriers named were: dining out, eating on the run, and not realizing results fast enough.

Some solutions or strategies to keep in mind now, according to survey results, include:

Plan a realistic diet and exercise program. This method was favored as a solution for the lack of motivation and will power. It was rated most effective, easiest to apply, and most likely to be used.

Set goals one week at a time. This strategy was judged the best way to respond to poor or slow results. Setting goals weekly also was considered the most effective and easiest strategy to apply to the respondents' hectic and busy lifestyles.

Plan meals in advance and master quick, healthy meals. Preparing quick and healthy meals versus eating fast food can help solve the dilemma of eating on the run.

"Dining out and eating on the run are a part of everyone's life these days, but it does not have to blow your resolution," said Baird, who suggested looking for healthy substitutes, such as spicy grilled chicken instead of pizza.

Wellness Junction also is compiling top strategies for keeping New Year's Resolutions — whether they deal with diet and nutrition, fitness and exercise, or another target area. Results will be posted on the Web site in January. Don't forget to let your voice be heard by participating in our Healthy Commitments poll; surveys are being accepted throughout the end of this year!