Here's how to succeed in your New Year's resolutions

Again we resolve to eat better and less, save money, stop smoking and be nicer to our colleagues and loved ones -- or get some colleagues and loved ones.

But while 45% of Americans make New Year's resolutions, only about 8% are successful in long-term change, according to University of Scranton data excerpted on Statistic Brain.

We up our odds of success, though, if we are approach our missions in a focused and strategic way and let go of perfectionism tendencies and "all or nothing" attitudes, say psychologists.

Here are some tips to help you greet 2014 healthier, happier, richer and wiser:

 Seek support:  There's a reason "Anonymous" programs help keep people sober and sane. Surrounding yourself with others who are engaged in a similar struggle keeps you accountable and provides a boost when your own motivation flags. If you don't want to join a support group, find a buddy engaged in a similar endeavor. "That's how I finished my doctoral dissertation," said AlRoy. She and her friend checked in with each other weekly and "it was really helpful," she said. And don't neglect electronic support: Program your phone with reminders and encouraging messages.