January is thought to be a month of renewal. It offers everyone the opportunity to have a fresh start; a clean slate to set new goals and of course… resolutions. In addition to the annual setting of resolutions in January, you are likely to either hear (or think) the phrase: "new year, new me." However, the reality is that it's easier said than done.

We're now into the third week of January, and odds are, the appeal of some of the resolutions you set for yourself is starting to wear off. Whether you told yourself you would get to the gym every day, eat healthy, quit drinking, get more sleep, or stop procrastinating, the likelihood of falling back into your usual ways is quite… likely.

This seems to be the inevitable cycle we fall victim to every year. Reason being because we all have this list of resolutions, but no real plan of why we want to make these changes or how we're going to do it.

We all feel like we should set resolutions to change things about our lives, but why? Are we setting these resolutions out of feelings of obligation, or because we really want to change? The reality appears to be that we are spending our time wanting to change things, but aren't changing anything about ourselves.

Resolutions, by definition, are supposed to be firm decisions that have both intent and purpose. However, how are we supposed to make changes to our lives if we aren't living purposefully and making changes that are really intentional? Change is hard, but it's even harder trying to change the things around us if we aren't willing to make changes within us.

That being said, in regards to this year's resolutions, I think we need to shift the focus. We should focus on changing our thoughts and our actions, because things don't change unless we do; change starts within.

We all have the ability to change and be a better version of ourselves. The real changes start when we change our mindsets and we change our attitudes. The power of positive thinking should not be underestimated.

So, instead of letting another year, month, or even a week pass you by... start to change. This doesn't mean you have to work out every day, eat organic, never have a drink with friends, get to bed by 9 o'clock every day, or anything like that. First, focus on changing your thoughts and your mindset.

Try to wake up and be grateful, set daily goals, live every day with intention, smile, be optimistic. Focus on creating a life that feels good on the inside, not one that only looks good on the outside.

Think of this year in terms of "broaden and build." Take 2017 to grow as a person - into the person you want to be. If you believe in the ability to change your mindset and be successful that way, the rest of your goals will follow.

You don't have to become a new you to have a successful year or successful life, just take every day to try to become a better you.