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I've been reading about people's New Years Resolutions for 2010, and of course, they are the same old predictable promises people make, but then usually forget about by January 31st.

2009 was a difficult year for me, with the loss of my father, and it made me reflect on what's really important in life - what makes a difference.  I read numerous books and articles on living a better life, and, after each article I read,  I made notes on the one or two points that I believed really made a difference.  After reviewing this list of thoughts, reflections, and advice, I've made my own list of areas to focus on in 2010.  These are actions that, in my opinion, are achievable, and, if done consistently, will make a big difference in your life, and in the life of others. 

I've taken my original list of almost 100 points, and consolidated it down to five -  It was actually much easier to do than you would think.  Here it is, hope it helps you like it has helped me.

1) Spend quality time with family and friends:  Create memorable moments. 

• Throw a  (no special occassion) "theme" party and invite family and friends.
• Take a week-long road trip and include things for everyone
• Take a someone on a trip with you to someplace quiet, uncrowded - use the time to take hikes, play games, talk

2) Look for the positive in people and in situations.  Any situations could be looked at positively or negatively.  It's really your choice how you want to think of it.  People who look at situations generally more positively, tend to live longer and heathier lives, and even more importantly, effect others around them positively as well.

• If you loose your job, think of all the new possibilities to do something new - and go after them with all you've got!
• If someone close to you has died - reflect on all the good things they did and meant to you
• Look for the good in people, and tell them - often
• Always honor your word - it's all you have in life that's really yours
• Say "hello" to compete strangers - but say it like you mean it
• Give you job 100% of what you've got - If you can't do that, then you are in the wrong job.

3) Live below your means.  Trust me, this works.  People who live below thier means are happier, healther (physically, mentally, and financially).  Living below your means gives you flexibility in life, freedom (from worries, bills, etc), and opportunities to take care of things when the need arises.  2 of the top 5 most common New Years Resolutions for 2010 (and 2009, and 2008...) are: pay down credit card debt, and save for the future.  Living below your means allows you to do both.

4) Treat your body better.  I love to eat, but I also understand that you only get one body in life.  No matter how much money you have, you can't buy a new model.  And, I'm not talking cosmetic stuff, I'm talking about what's really important - what's inside, what keeps you alive.  And you CAN be healthier - without it being an obsession.  Just taking a few positive steps can make a huge difference in your life.  Here are a few simple steps:

• Cut down on processed sugar - limit sweets to only twice a week
• Drink water, real fruit juice, milk.  Cut soft drinks out completely
• You can have a glass of wine (preferably red) each day
• Try to eat fish (not fried) twice a week
• Substitute :Sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes, brown rice instead of white, granola and berries (blueberries, unsweetened dried cranberries, blackberries) instead of cereal, salad at lunch instead of sandwich
• Limit fried food to once a week - max
• Have two servings of green vegetables daily 
• Walk briskly (2 miles / 4-5 times per week), or get a treadmill
• Get a physical exam

5) Help Others - Do you really want to feel better about yourself?  Then help others. There are many ways to do this, but you need to do it - more than once!

• Help out at a food pantry
• Volunteer at a homeless shelter, church, or facility for the disabled
• Contribute & donate; choose a couple of charities or organizations you wish to support - things that you are interested in, and donate time, talent, money - or all three.
• See an older person on the street struggling with their bags? Don't just feel sorry for them, go help them.  But you're in a hurry?  So what, what's more important than helping your fellow man in need?  Just do it - you will feel better.
• Help a fellow co-worker who you know needs help or support

So, there they are - five steps that you can look back on at the end of 2010 and actually say - "Wow!  I am much better off than I was a year ago".  These 5 steps WILL change your life, because once you start them, you won't stop.  They are all designed to make you feel better, happier, and healthier.  And once you start doing that, you inspire others around you to do the same.

There in nothing in these steps about buying a bigger house or nicer car, nothing about religious beliefs, nothing political, no new job - or big promotion resolution - they are simply steps that will make you a better person.

Hope you try them - you can be certain that I will.