Let’s face it: keeping a New Year’s resolution can be tough. But making a resolution can be effective. Research has found that people who make a New Year’s resolution are more likely to change a problem and achieve their goal.

One of our nation’s health problems is chronic sleep loss. Adults should sleep 7 or more hours per night on a regular basis to promote optimal health. But CDC data show that about 70 million U.S. adults report sleeping 6 hours or less on average.

Make it your New Year’s resolution to sleep 7 and up each night this year.

10 tips to help you keep your sleep resolution

  • Keep a consistent sleep schedule. Get up at the same time every day, even on weekends or during vacations.
  • Set a bedtime that is early enough for you to get at least 7 hours of sleep.
  • Go to bed when you feel sleepy, even if it’s before your bedtime.
  • If you don’t fall asleep after 20 minutes, get out of bed.
  • Establish relaxing bedtime rituals.
  • Make your bedroom quiet and relaxing. Keep the room at a comfortable, cool temperature.
  • Limit exposure to light in the evenings.
  • Don’t eat a large meal before bedtime. If you are hungry at night, eat a light, healthy snack.
  • Avoid consuming caffeine in the late afternoon or evening.
  • Avoid consuming alcohol before bedtime.

If you have tried all of these tips and still have trouble sleeping, you should talk to your doctor. You can also use this searchable directory of accredited sleep centers to get help from a board-certified sleep doctor near you.

Make a sleep resolution and enjoy better health this year!