I am a huge fan of New Year's resolutions. I try to make a list every year and I encourage others to do the same.

I've found that I have better, more achievable, resolutions when I start thinking about them well before Christmas. So, I would encourage you to start thinking about your resolutions now. Raking leaves is a great time to think about resolutions.

To me, resolution-setting isn't about promising to do things I know I won't do. It's more like personal strategic planning. By making something a resolution, I commit to putting my most valuable resources (time, energy, effort, money) into making it happen.

I don't let myself off with vague resolutions like, "I will be more patient" or "I will lose weight" or "I will manage money better." I sit down and spend some quiet time thinking about where I want to be next year, what sort of person I want to become.  Then, I decide on some concrete steps that will help me get there. You MUST write these down. You will never hold yourself accountable if you don't write them down.

Once you have laid out your goals, decide on some timelines and put them on your calendar. In addition, make a note at least every other month to reread your resolutions so you can make sure that you stay on track.

I have identified four resolutions for 2018. I'll blog more about them as the year draws to a close, but I wanted to start you all thinking now.