Many may dismiss the concept of New Year's Resolutions, but it is very much ingrained in our social culture to think about turning over a new leaf at the beginning of each year.

The New Year's tradition was started 4,000 years ago by the Babylonians, but it wasn't January 1, it was really in March when the earth renewed.

And it wasn't about reformation; it was renewal time for spring planting, prayers for a good season and harvest.

When your very life depends upon growing enough food to survive another year, you can bet it is going to be cause for a ceremony.

In the civilised world, we are incredibly fortunate. Most of us no longer have to think about where our next mouthful is coming from, it just shows up on our plates.

I wonder how many actually know exactly where their food sources are derived.

Regardless of the resolutions that we may (or may not) adopt personally this week, statistically, about one-third of the Bermudian population will venture down a well-travelled path paved with bold and sometimes hastily conceived New Year's resolutions.

Simple Goals, Measurable Successes. Why would we want to make a resolution in the first place? Isn't it somehow setting oneself up for failure? Researchers find that commitment is the secret of successful goal setting. I personally think that as human beings, we will always aspire to elevate our behaviour.

Trying to achieve many ideals at once though, such as promises to exercise more, lose weight, stop smoking, cut down on alcohol, eat a healthier diet and make new friends, often become a recipe for disaster.

Perhaps we need to think of resolutions as life process, not a one-time effort that offers people a chance to create new habits. Thus, choosing very small goals each year will guarantee gradual positive changes.

FOCUS ON FINANCE. Because finances are at the integral core of our lives, why not focus on the easier financial success of watching the small stuff. According to www.ihatefinancialplanning.com, their calculator Doing One Thing Different: buying one less take out lunch per week at $13.00, one less cheese muffin every morning ($10.00), and one less drink at the bar at $7 a week, invested instead at 5% will add up to $1,700 a year and over your working career (30 years) will give you an extra $110,000. Be honest, would you really miss that muffin or extra drink? There is one catch, however, you have to commit every single week to deposit that small stuff into a savings account, the money that is, not the muffin.

FOCUS ON YOU. If thinking about finances this weekend is enough to give you a migraine after your Christmas spending, then consider focusing on the kind of person you want to be. It will enhance not only your image, but your career path and your community.

Try out some of these resolutions. A little secret, with practice you get better.

I do what I say: If I say I will do something, I will do it. I am trustworthy and will be held accountable.

I take ownership for what happens: I will not blame others, or make excuses for problems that arise. When something happens, I will look to myself first to see what role I played in it, acknowledge my responsibility and take ownership in resolving the problem.

I am positive: I will be a positive influence on others. I realize that there will be tough times and negativity surrounding me, but I will rise above it. I will focus on solutions, not problems and remain optimistic, with the belief that out of challenges opportunities arise.

I am respectful: I respect others opinions, differences, personal space and time.

I set realistic goals: I know what I need to do and when I need to do it. I have clear goals in mind and work toward these goals everyday.

I use my time wisely: I show up on time, begin and end meetings on time, and I don't waste time - mine or others. I avoid gossip and meaningless chitchat, and stay focused on my work.

I bring out the best in others: I realise that the best way for me to shine and look good is to make others look good. I will compliment others frequently and be the kind of person I want others to be.

I take pride in my work and will do my best: My job is important and I am important, no matter what position I hold. I will work each day with energy and purpose and make a positive contribution. I realize it will be much easier to feel good at the end of the day if I enjoy the work I do and acknowledge the contribution I've made.

It is Soul Enhancing to Change for the Better. Begin again at the dawn of the New Year to resolve to do one thing differently. If we do not aspire, we will not achieve; we will not reach the personal goals and dreams that we all have. This is our innermost soul in action. This is what distinguishes us from all other animals on the planet; the ability to choose to do the right thing for betterment of ourselves and mankind. And if you put away some serious money in the process, how much better off you will be.

Take charge of your life, it is the only one you've got.

Martha Harris Myron CPA CFP? is a Bermudian, a Certified Financial Planner?(US license) practitioner and VP, Personal Financial Services at Bank of Bermuda. She holds a NASD Series 7 license, and formerly owned a US financial services practice meeting the needs of 400 individual and corporate clients.

Confidential Email can be directed to marthamyron@northrock.bm

The article expresses the opinion of the author alone, and not necessarily that of Bank of Bermuda. Under no circumstances is this advice to be taken as a recommendation to buy or sell investment products or as a promotion for financial plans. The Editor of the Royal Gazette has final right of approval over headlines, content, and length/brevity of article.