Resolve to Be Better

Sure, you can resolve to lose weight, save money, or even stop smoking...all are actually really positive changes. But it might be a good idea to aim a little higher in the coming new year. Here are five suggestions for resolutions and goals you can work on accomplishing in the coming year.

1) Read more!

Yep...it's that simple. Just read more! Numerous studies of some of the most successful people indicate that they read...a LOT. Don't believe me? Review this article from the Business Insider, or this one from the Huffington Postfor potential proof that reading might be directly related to overall success in life.

But, who cares about success, right? <insert concerning stare of death here> Okay, I confess, success, as individually defined, is important. Nevertheless, reading is a super way to improve your mind, your vocabulary and your intelligence. So pick up a book and get to it.

This actually happens to be one of my goals for next year - I plan to read at least two books each month. I've already purchased my first two books—Leadership BS by Jeffrey Pfeffer and Javascript for Kids by Nick Morgan.

2) Be more charitable!

I believe most of us are charitable in some ways. Frankly speaking, charity, at its most basic level, is nothing short of leaving a tip for the wait staff at a local restaurant or the person with whom you trust your hair once a month. You don't have to tip, but you do...that makes you charitable! Great job!

For the upcoming year, give a little more. Find a cause—it could be any local or national non-profit: a children's hospital, the homeless shelter, a pet rescue—it's completely up to you. Learn about it, become passionate about it, spread the word about it! But don't stop at being an advocate for it—be an example and give of your time, your talent and, yes, your money. Not only will you feel great about yourself, but you'll be making a huge difference in someone's life!

3) Learn a new skill!

"You can avoid becoming stale, without attending Yale. Don't fear that you will fail; act now and you'll prevail!"

And...that's precisely why I'm not a poet. Bad rhymes aside, this is an awesome resolution for the new year. Find something that interests you and jump in!

This is another of my goals for next year—my background is nearly all telecom; however, I now work for a software company, which sparked my interest in programming languages—thus, my second book of choice above. You're never too old to learn something new. Having said that, everyone learns at a different pace and in different ways—don't let that stop you! Channeling Rob Schneider,"You can do it!"

4) Volunteer!

So, this could probably be lumped in with #2 because, technically, volunteering is kin to being charitable. BUT, to volunteer alludes to having relatively frequent engagement with your charity. It could be weekly, monthly, even quarterly - but you stay connected. There are so many opportunities to volunteer your time and effort—there's really no excuse for anyone not to.

Assuming you are a member of the human race (though I don't want to exclude those who don't identify with the human race), it is important to lend a helping hand. After all, you never know when you may be on the other end of someone else's kindness and generosity. Pay it forward, that's what they say. It's really as simple as a Google search for "volunteer opportunities" - you'll be overwhelmed with results. Now, don't ask any questions—JUST DO IT (to steal a phrase)!

5) Step away from the phone!

Where would we be without our cell phones? I mean, seriously. Modern pocket technology is great!...I really appreciate my phone. But, it has managed to help us become somewhat disconnected from our family and friends in so many ways. In fact, I've witnessed two people sitting in the same room, using text messaging as a detour to actual conversationit's a short-cut to avoid physical communications and, in some ways, physical contact.

Sooo, in the coming year, how about make an effort to, at least occasionally, bypass the phone and spend more quality time with your family. Maybe even get some practice having actual eye-contact with your mom, best friend, or significant other. Yes, I know, that's kind of a scary thought. On the other hand, you might actually like it!

Okay, so there's my short list of ways to give yourself a mental make-over in the new year! Don't wait til July to set a goal—do it now.

No, really...do it right NOW!