A new year arrives and so does the traditions of making resolutions.  I don’t really care about resolutions, I prefer to focus on a few things that will hopefully make me a better person and help me achieve balance in my life.

I use my list as a touchstone throughout the year, to remind myself of the things that keep me grounded.  I tend to get caught up in the minutia of daily living and forget the things that really matter.

I’m a little late with my list, but here it goes…..

1. Don’t take yourself so seriously.  It’s okay to act the fool and laugh at yourself sometimes.  Stuffy, self-involved people are boring and missing out on all the light-hearted moments life can bring.

2. Don’t fret the little things.  When something is really bothering me and stealing my joy, I ask myself, “Will this bother me tomorrow?”  Or next month….the time frame doesn’t really matter.   If the answer is no, let it go.  If the answer is yes, then do something about it……have a frank conversation, develop a plan, seek help. Don’t let it fester.

3.  Let go of hate, envy, self-doubt……all those thoughts and feelings that halt your happiness.  Someone will always have more stuff, be more attractive, etc.  This life is a chance to grow and soar.  Don’t waste it with negativity.  Fill it with as much love, happiness and good memories as can possibly be achieved.  Not all days will be happy, but try to find something positive, if at all possible.  Failing that, just survive that day and hope for a better tomorrow.

4.  All  relationships end eventually.  Don’t be afraid to love completely. This isn’t meant as a negative thing.  People grow and change.  I’m not the same person I was in my twenties and I’ll be somewhat different when I’m fifty.  Some relationships have stood the test of time, others have drifted quietly apart and a few have ended with huge fireworks and devastation.

Even if a relationship lasts a lifetime, it will still end when one person dies.  My goal is not leave things unsaid.  No regrets. You can’t always control the end, just your actions.

5. Enjoy that slice of cake, glass of wine, chocolate bar.  An occasional indulgence is good.  Be kind to yourself!