Out with the Old and In with the New... or not

I'm thinking about New Year's Eve plans tonight and I can't let the opportunity to tell you about one of the best things I ever did for myself pass by. It changed my life, and I hope it'll change yours too!

Back in college my best friend and I made a pact to abolish New Year's Resolutions. It started out more a joke than anything, as we talked about all our failed resolutions (especially the dreaded "lose some weight" or "exercise regularly"). We talked about all the guilt and frustration that we inflicted upon ourselves, all for the sake of "starting out the New Year right". So we decided to ditch the masochistic practice of New Year's Resolutions - we would have New Year's REVOLUTIONS instead!

The idea is simple. Instead of dwelling on your vices and bad habits, telling yourself you'll change when you know you won't, put your energy towards the positive things in your life! Don't look at the bad, look at all that good in you that doesn't get the kudos you deserve! My first New Year's Revolutions list looked something like this:

1. Cultivate creativity 2. Be as generous with love for myself as others 3. Laugh out loud as much as I can 4. Visit more dive bars to meet really interesting people (remember this list was made in college...) 5. Relax and let things happen.

What a phenomenal year it turned out to be! When I looked back at my list I remembered taking more risks, being more honest and open, really enjoying parts of my personality that I am proud of! I didn't have the "wow, I really let myself down" feelings I had had for years and years before. I encourage you to look into what makes you happy and follow in your own footsteps to make 2009 an exceptional year.

If you need a little nudge, make the same New Year's Revolution pact with your best friend, sister, husband, neighbor, you name it. Just try to eliminate negative words like: No, Quit, Stop, or Diet and use happy words like: Enjoy, Rest, Giggle, or Indulge. Once you get the hang of it you'll wonder why you ever fretted over gym memberships.