With the New Year rapidly approaching people are taking some time from the holiday hustle and bustle to reflect on their past year. We look at the highs and the lows and oftentimes we find ourselves thinking ahead to next year; cue the New Year’s resolutions.

I’ve never been a big fan of New Year’s resolutions and I don’t mean to knock them. If you like them and find success in resolving to do things go for it.I’ve found that things get crazy and I lose sight on the big picture of what I actually resolved to do.I’ve tried a few different things to stay on track, but nothing has really worked too well for me.

Resolve to do nothing. There’s always the option to not have a New Year’s resolution.I don’t ever formally set them.Honestly, I set goals based on how my year unfolds and I don’t contain them to a one year cycle.There’s nothing wrong with not having New Year’s resolutions.

Set small goals. More than anything I’ve found that setting shorter term milestone type goals works more for me than ambitious year-long triumphs.Small things can be as simple as resolving to smile more because the world needs more smiling faces in it.

Resolve to do things for others. I’m a big believer in random acts of kindness and whenever I am able to and have the opportunity I like to do things to put a smile on other people’s faces.For me, this shifts the focus from what I’m doing to how others react to it which isn’t necessarily the norm because a lot of people resolve to do things for themselves.Resolve to make someone’s day a little brighter by leaving money in a vending machine for them to purchase a snack with or buying groceries for some random person checking out.Not only will you feel good, but you’ll be making their day a little brighter.

Resolve to be a healthier you, not to weigh X amount of pounds. I love the restored desire that the New Year brings people.Number goals can be tricky sometimes though.Sure, they’re easier to track and all, but what happens when things go off track and you miss the mark?Resolve to be healthy overall.You can start by cutting out soda or committing to exercise three times a week.There’s really no need for a scale.

Pick one or two things to focus on. Less is more in this case.Feel free to choose one area of focus instead of setting five or six goals.It’s great to be ambitious, but if you want to stick to your goals, you need to have a manageable amount.

So, resolve to do something or resolve to do nothing. Whatever you choose, do what makes you happy.That’s the ultimate goal here.I hope your year has been full of more good times than bad and more laughter than you could have even imagined.Happy New Year friends, may 2017 bring you happiness, good health, and lots of unforgettable memories with the people you like to be around the most.