New Year’s resolutions are so much a part of the American consciousness. It seems to be a requirement that you start the year right by making your resolutions. For some, it is a great way to look forward to the next year with purpose and intent.

Yet, for others it is a set-up for failure. Great plans are made, energy is high, but for some that isn’t enough.

To these people, I would like to say: try a new approach. Think about next year as a new start. Period. Don’t force yourself to make a resolution or two (or TEN) that will set you up for judgment or avoidance.

Think about the year in gentle terms of possibilities, desires, interest and fun. Sometimes, a change in perspective is change enough for one New Year’s.