5.背熟：We also make the fundamental error of announcing our resolutions to everybody so that we look even more foolish when we slip back into our bad old ways.

dozing off: half sleep

slip back into our bad old ways: return to the normal way新概念3课文

eg:The man slipped back into drinking after he promised not to do so.

I was back to where I had started from / got back to my old bad habit

6.背熟：Aware of these pitfalls, this year I attempted to keep my resolutions to myself.

keep my resolutions to myself: keep my resolutions secret

Aware of the importance, I attempt to carry it out. 由于意识到了此事的重要性，我竭尽全力来把它实现。

7.背熟：but on the second, I applied myself assiduously to the task.

apply oneself to / apply one's time to / apply one's mind / energy to

be devoted / dedicated to

eg: In 2002, I shall apply myself to learning English.