Happy New Year! With the holiday season coming to a close, 2016 is here. It’s such an exciting time, full of hopes and dreams for the future.

One of the first things we often do is create resolutions for the upcoming year. Whether they are related to our health, personal life or career, these goals help to guide our choices based upon our current priorities.

And, it’s the perfect time. Each year, our priorities evolve based upon where we are in our lives. There are some years when making money and getting a promotion can rise to the top of our list. Other years, we are searching for meaning and balance.

Whatever your priorities are this New Year, one thing’s for sure. A big change requires a big transformation. However, the idea of such a large shift can be overwhelming and cause us not to act. It can feel paralyzing.

I recently heard from a reader who has been unemployed for an extended period of time. Despite setbacks, the person has continued to get up each day and look for new opportunities. I admire this kind of strength and endurance.

Finding your path is not something that comes overnight. It’s not a switch that can be flipped. Creating a new you requires courage and persistence. It requires continuing to try, even if you aren’t always sure about how things will turn out.

It’s like getting in shape. You don’t expect to lose weight and gain muscle after one trip to the gym. You plan to devote a certain amount of time to it each week. It’s a routine you develop and intend to keep up over the long term.

When you see someone who looks fit, you know they put quite a bit of time in at the gym. It’s a priority for them. The same holds true in our careers. So often, those who find the most success are also those who are willing to work for it, to take risks and to get back up when they fall down.

So, stay focused on your goals for the future, but start small. Begin to reflect on your personal priorities and your fears. What has been holding you back? What small steps can you take toward your goal, without jeopardizing your current situation?

Think of ways that you can turn your career development into a regular routine – just like the gym. Come up with small weekly goals you can implement throughout the year. In time, that routine will result in a transformation.

Putting a plan in place will help to set expectations. It will also help to minimize frustrations when you don’t immediately find the change you’re seeking. There will be ups and downs and bumps along the way. But, whether you are looking for more money, or more balance, making a New Year’s resolution and then taking the time to work on it for yourself is what will get you there. Nobody can do it but you!

Angela Copeland is CEO and founder of Copeland Coaching and can be reached at CopelandCoaching.com.