Solutions for resolutions

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We’re five days into the new year, which begs the question: How many resolutions have you broken so far?

The “Skinny Bitch” diet, which seemed like such a good idea on Tuesday, took a turn for the worse Wednesday, when you mistakenly ordered a steak and cheese sandwich – with extra steak – for lunch. Whoops.

Your oath to be nice to everyone around you went by the wayside Thursday, when you encountered that barista with a nasty attitude. Despite what she told you, a venti by any other name really is just a large.

And it’s easy to swear off the sauce when you feel like your head has just been hit by a Mack truck. But by Friday, you had already convinced yourself that a small (not tall) glass of red was just what the doctor ordered.

Stop beating yourself up about it and take a little advice from Penelope Cruz’s character, Sofia, in “Vanilla Sky”: “Every passing moment is a chance to turn it all around.” In other words, you’re allowed to take a mulligan (that’s a do-over for all of you nongolfers). Rome wasn’t built in a day. Every journey begins with a single step. Feel free to add your own cliche here.

Of course, a little incentive – um, shopping? – never hurt anyone. So here are a few affordable, practical ideas to help you keep your new year’s resolutions. Consider this a map for the road to righteousness. Or, at the very least, smaller pants and a better attitude.

Your resolution: Lose weight

Our solution: New workout clothes. Hoodie, $7, T.J. Maxx ‘n More.

You know how the first day of school always seemed a bit more palatable in a new, saved-for-it-all-summer outfit? Apply that concept to the treadmill. Yes, it’s still working out, but a new hoodie and capris somehow make it seem better. Plus, everything is on sale right now. Check T.J.’s, Marshalls and Old Navy for great deals.

Your resolution: Save money

Our solution: Make your own coffee. French press, $29, Bed Bath & Beyond

When financial gurus talk about nickel-and-diming yourself to death, they always argue that the money you spend at Dunkin’ Donuts or Starbucks adds up faster than you’d think. The only problem is, homemade coffee tastes watered-down and gross, right? Not necessarily. The difference is heat – commercial coffee shops have coffee makers that make the water way hotter than most at-home coffee makers. You could splurge on a Cuisinart Brew Central, which coffee experts just love. But you use boiling water in French press, which extracts tons of flavor from the beans – and it’s way less expensive.

Your resolution: Reduce

Our solution: reuseable shopping bags. Baggu bags, $6, Metropolitan Soul, Bangor.

In theory, everyone loves the idea of cloth shopping bags. But in practice, they can be a bit of a pain, especially for those of us who are forgetful. Enter the Baggu. This tiny, nylon bag folds down to a 3-by-3 inch square, which will fit in even the tiniest of purses, so you’ll always have it on hand in the checkout aisle. Plus, it comes in a rainbow of colors.

Your resolution: Reuse and recycle

Our solution: Eco-chic. Francisca bag by Ecoist, $75, www.Ecoist.com

My obsession with Ecoist bags started this summer, when ShopMom bought my sister (ShopGirl Jr.) and me whimsical wristlets made of recycled candy wrappers. At Christmas, the joy continued when Junior returned the favor and treated both of us to this sleek silver bag made of recycled pull tabs. The bags are made by a women’s cooperative in Brazil and the company plants a tree for every bag you buy. Even better? They look nothing like the Louis Vuitton knockoffs that everyone carries these days. A quick visit to www.ecoist.com will inspire you.

Your resolution: Drink less wine and more water

Our solution: Yummy seltzer. Boylan seltzer, $1.15 per bottle, Natural Living Center, Bangor

Hydration without gratification stinks. Which is why I am addicted to flavored seltzer water. Its fizzy deliciousness makes you almost forget you’re drinking water, which is a good thing. For daily use, I favor Polar seltzer in the black cherry or pomegranate flavors, which runs about $3 for a 12-pack. This Boylan is a bit pricier, but it’s a nice treat. If you do like plain water, check out the Brita filter water bottles, www.brita.com.

Your resolution: Eat more healthfully

Our solution: Cook your own food. Scanpan frying pan, $35, www.cookscatalog.com

Word to the wise: All that takeout isn’t doing your heart – or your butt – any favors. You can cut way back on the calories and fat, while adding nutrients to your diet, by cooking your own food. Start small and easy. For spot-on recipes that walk you through the process, pick up a copy of The Joy of Cooking. Then, as a little incentive, invest in some great cookware. It truly makes all the difference. My current obsession is the Le Creuset seconds at T.J. Maxx ‘n More (around $100), but these nonstick pans by Scanpan are quite intriguing. The nonstick surface isn’t a coating, it’s part of the pan, which means it won’t flake off – and you can cut back on the butter and oil, to boot.

Your resolution: Stop smoking

Our solution: Keep your mouth occupied. Oral Fixation mints, $3.25, The Grasshopper Shop.

You’re going to need resolve, a little encouragement from your friends and iron-strong willpower. But these antioxidant mints from Oral Fixation certainly can’t hurt. They come in fun flavors, such as Jasmint and Tropical fruit mint, and the packaging is so provocative, it might just take your mind off smoking for a minute or two. Still struggling? Visit www.cdc.gov/tobacco/how2quit.htm or www.smokefree.gov for reinforcement.

Your resolution: Stress less

Our solution: Instant relaxation. Kiss My Face lavender shea butter lotion, $3.59, Natural Living Center

Your boss wanted that report yesterday. Your daughter is sick at home with the flu. Your oil bill just arrived, and it’s higher than your mortgage payment. What to do? Relax. If only for a moment. The scent of lavender has the power to mentally – if not physically – transport you to an imaginary spa. Unfortunately, most of the lavender products out there don’t smell a whiff like lavender, and the ones that do are superexpensive. This Kiss My Face lotion is the best of both worlds. It smells divine, smoothes your skin and costs well under $5. If only your oil bill could do all that.

Your resolution: Dress sensibly

Our solution: Stylish basics. Born clogs, $39.99, T.J. Maxx ‘n More

The words “sensible clothes” strike fear into the hearts of many a fashionista – but it doesn’t have to be this way. After stiletto-induced foot pain left me in the lurch, I discovered Born clogs, which are far cuter than most and ridiculously comfortable. Plus, they still have 31/2-inch heels. My other sensible obsessions for winter? A long, slim down parka in black (L.L. Bean’s is cute, and at $70, a steal) and, as always, a chunky knit cap.

Your resolution: Get organized

Our solution: Get an organizer. Elfa system, prices vary, www.thecontainerstore.com

If you haven’t seen the surface of your desk in months and your bedroom is covered in clothes, it’s time to organize. You may want to enlist the help of a professional organizer (visit www.organizeyourworld.com or search Google for local services). But if you just need a little boost, try ordering any one of the myriad organizing products available at The Container Store. Elfa systems (perfect for closets or laundry rooms) are all 30 percent off through February. However, a few drawer dividers might be all you need. Regardless, you’re sure to find it on the store’s Web site. While you’re at it, check out the recent article “A Clutter Too Deep for Mere Bins and Shelves” on the New York Times Web site (www.nytimes.com, then do a search for the writer, Tara Parker-Pope).