One university study found 45 percent of people attempt New Year's resolutions, but only 8 percent achieve their goal. The most powerful strategy to help ensure success is using fear of confrontation by others if you don't succeed. You're hardwired to respond to pain and fear and avoid these threats to a greater degree than you are motivated by pleasurable vision of success. Both are useful, but together they supercharge motivation. The proof of this assertion lies in any resistance you may feel this minute just thinking about it. If failure is not an option, here's the way to go: Identify 10 to 20 people (not family members) you know who won't let you off the hook. Commit to the goal in writing and distribute a copy to each person, being sure to include a completion date. Now you're motivated!