Reverse New Year's Resolutions

At the start of the new year many find themselves resolving to make changes in their lives. Although these resolutions are meant to better themselves, they are often abandoned before the final result is achieved. Or worse, the resolution was never really attainable in the first place, producing feelings of failure, resentment and discouragement.

This year try some reverse New Year's resolutions. Rather than creating a list of goals for the new year, create a list of your achievements from this past year, and celebrate your successes. All achievements are valid, large and small, because it was something you personally attained. Here are three reverse New Year's resolutions ideas to get you started:

Reverse New Year's Resolution #1: Starting a New Job

Celebrate the courage you had to take on a new job or career. The decision to venture into a new work environment is not easy. Learning a new set of skills, collaborating with a new staff or diving into your own business venture is not easy. If you started a new job or career this past year, take pride in your decision.

Reverse New Year's Resolution #2: Exercise

Starting a new health routine, or joining a gym is top on many resolution lists. But, did you talk a walk last year, run around the yard with your dog or work up a sweat in the garden? Physical exercise comes in many forms, and those hours of grass mowing and snow shoveling didn't go unnoticed by your body. Although a regular fitness routine is good for your health, think of all the times you broke a sweat this past year doing everyday tasks. You have been exercising, in non-traditional ways. Celebrate the fact that you were physically able to perform those tasks, and you have a happy dog, beautiful lawn or fruitful garden to show for it!

Reverse New Year's Resolution #3: Finding that Certain Someone

Hoping to meet Mr. or Miss. right may be on your mind if you're on the singles scene. Although I am a firm believer that you will meet the right person at the right time, without extra efforts, be happy for those you have met this past year. Did you make new friends? Did you learn more about a co-worker and can now share common interests at break time? Has a neighbor become your morning chat buddy? You never know when one of these people will become the right person, or introduce you to their friends. Keep meeting people, and be happy for those who consider you a friend.