Don't make a New Year's resolution! Marc is right...I hate resolutions. You know why? Not because it's stupid, but because you probably resolved to change your behavior, for example loosing weight LONG before the ball drops January 1st! Then, you gave yourself a pass and ate everything on the table during the holidays, and now you want to unveil a resolution tonight?

Oh yeah, you're really ready for this life changing event.

That's why I don't resolve. And when you give it some thought, I know you'll be with me on this. Here's a scenario, you're sitting around on New Year's Eve with friends and family, or at work when the holidays are over.

"So, what's your resolution?" is asked around the room.

Here comes the peer pressure! Yup, you gotta come up with a good resolution, because everyone is watching!

Don't do it!

You want to impress me? Resolve to stop smoking on some random day, like March 11th. Or, maybe a day that's important to you and your own personal goals, not the one when half of Earth's population makes a drunken, snap decision...that's not a good look.

And just to make sure you don't think I'm some kind of party-pooper...I'm trying to help you out! I want you to reach your goals, but keep this in mind...80% of all resolutions are broken by January 31st, according to research. If it's a resolution made to improve your fitness, 90% of those are broken by January 15th!

Not convinced that this really isn't a good idea? Here's the final sobering factoid...less than 5% of us can stick to our original resolutions by the end of the year!

I rest my case.

Don't do it!

Instead, take some time to reflect on the successes, and failures of 2008. I think you will move forward with some clarity, ready to take on the challenges of another year.

And 2009 will be great! Happy New Year!