Once the parties are over and after the clock has struck midnight, there is still the year ahead to think about. Most people make a few resolutions, though most of them don’t make it to the end of the month. As a business school student, applicant or alumni, you know more than most about setting goals and sticking with them.

These five goal-setting tips for the New Year are especially for you. We know that with your motivated mindset, you’ll be sure to make big things happen in 2013!

  1. Set goals within reason. The main problem with resolutions is that a lot of them are outlandish. Be realistic and keep goals to a manageable size. Instead of resolving to get your dream job, set a goal to do a certain number of interviews per month until you find a job you are content with. It will likely take years to hit the dream job goal, and you can keep that in your long-range goals, but probably isn’t practical for your yearly goal set.
  2. Be specific. When you are setting your resolutions, be sure to choose measurable, quantifiable goals. Instead of choosing a goal like becoming a better networker, try something more like making one new solid contact a month or trying a new method of networking.
  3. Set milestones and deadlines to mark your progress. This should help you stay on track and motivated to keep working toward your goals.
  4. Try something different. Rather than making another attempt at the same resolutions you had for last year (and maybe the year before and the year before that!) do something new. Learn a new marketable skill—something that will move you closer to that dream job on your long-term career goals list.
  5. Go easy on yourself. If you get off track, reevaluate, reset and pick up where you left off! The only way to fail is to quit trying.

The new year is a great time to evaluate what you have been doing well and which things need work. Make the most of this year. Make goals that really matter to you, your future and especially your career in business.