NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

With 2012 soon to be  behind us, it's time to start setting goals for the New Year. Most people have New Year's resolutions of some kind or another. The problem with such resolutions is that they are often too grand to achieve, and this often leads to disappointment and failure. For example, if you are a strong "B" student, it might be too much to have "all A's" as your goal. And maybe fitting in an extra activity here and there can be too strenuous for you lifestyle. How about a setting some easily attainable goals that will not only give you a sense of accomplishment, but might even help someone else!
Here is a list of a few suggestions that will make your year much better!
1. Help your Mom clean the kitchen. She does so much for you; why not pay her back in a helpful way?
2. Offer to walk the dog. If you don't have a pet, ask your friends or neighbors if you can borrow one of their furry friends.
3. Read at least one book for fun, not for school. It doesn't have to be boring-just something to get your creativity flowing. You might enjoy it! Ask your school or community librarian to help you pick out the perfect book for you. Don't have the time? Check out Amazon.com for great reviews on some cool books!
4. Make a new friend. Don't know what to say to break the ice? Give a compliment! People tend to open up more when you say something kind to them.
5. Say hello to someone at school that you don't usually talk to- In fact, you just might make a new friend or at least put a smile on someone's face!
6. Be kind to your siblings! Although it can be grueling at times, once you act maturely they will surely follow your lead. Plan a family outing to the movies or the ice cream shop and talk about what's new in your lives. Who knows? Maybe you will gain more appreciation for your little brothers insect collection than you previously thought.
7. Get help when you need it- there is no reason to be embarrassed to ask you teacher how to solve the new math problems. That's what they are there for! In fact, admitting that you need help makes you as stronger person, and shows that you aren't afraid.
8. Watches less T.V! It is definitely hard, but will be worth it in the long run. Instead of mindlessly flipping channels after The O.C is over, turn off the tube and do something productive!
 9. Volunteer at a food bank, hospital, or any other place that needs help. Not only can it make you feel good, but also it helps other people who really need it.
10. Do a good deed for someone daily.    Do something as simple as helping an elderly man load his groceries into his car. Whip the hair out of your face, smile and talk at the same time. How about downloading some songs for your little brother, or taking the family car to the car wash (without being asked)?

11. Say NO to hours on Facebook.or limit yourself to only one hour a day on the site. Also try to  finish  your homework  BEFORE you  log on.
12. Stay away from dangerous people.  There are lots of people that want to befriend you, and some of them have motives other than friendship. Don't go anywhere at night without longtime, trustworthy friends. Be home by curfew.
13 Talk more, text less.   When you don't talk, you miss the voice inflections and emotions that go with the message you are hearing. It enhances relationships and reduces misunderstandings.

14. Show your parents and teachers that you appreciate them. Give your parents a hug — no reason necessary. When the shock subsides, they'll appreciate it. At the end of class, on your way out the door, say to your teacher, "Thanks for the lesson today, it was a good one." It's that simple, and it is guaranteed to make their day a good one!

Have a great year!