I’ll put that on my list…

Is it possible that there are some people out there who don’t make New Year’s resolutions? As someone who is constantly setting goals and making plans, I can’t imagine letting this annual milestone pass without making at least one commitment to myself to improve something in my life. No matter how nerdy or insignificant that might sound. For those of us out there who are resolution-challenged, I’ve compiled a few links that you can refer to for help in making your own resolutions:

For absolute beginners: An e-how article on making resolutions.

For people who need more specific guidance: There is a list of ideas for resolutions here from USA.gov.

For people who don’t really want to resolve to change anything: This article by Susan Whelan on resolutions to pamper or otherwise indulge yourself. Nothing too overly responsible or guilt-inducing over there.

For people who can’t stand people who regularly make resolutions: Although this one by Scott Young is from last year, it’s still a very interesting and thought-provoking article. He makes some great points about design flaws in the whole New Year’s resolution structure. He asserts that “Resolutions play into the mindset of success and failure.” After reading this article, you’ll be so ready for an argument that the next person who asks you about your resolutions for the year are might be sorry they bothered. That’s just cool.

And of course, for writers: This article on writing-related resolutions appeared in Angela Hoy’s Writer’s Weekly newsletter. This article is actually pretty good and somewhat helpful.

So, while you’re trying to figure out just what it is that you need to do today besides sleep off that Champagne hangover, try your hand at making a resolution. Even if it is just to resolve not to drink so much on New Year’s Eve this year.

Happy New Year!