Happy 2021! I hope you found some time to laugh and re-energize over the last few weeks, and that you and your loved ones (and even your liked ones) are safe and healthy.

A wise person once mused, "Most new year's resolutions go in one ear and out the other." But we know there are ways to resolve this conundrum (see what I did there?). Research reveals that the likelihood of keeping your resolutions increases when you set smaller goals that you know you'll be able to commit to, when you have an accountability partner, and when you take the time to write down
your goals. (And for bonus points, actually create a plan. With realistic timelines. And deadlines. And fun rewards that may or may not include chocolate.)

With that in mind, here are 5 super easy and fun resolutions to help you regain, maintain, and sustain a happier outlook for the year ahead. 

1. Start that gratitude journal. At the end of each day, jot down 3 things you are grateful for. All you need is a pen, a notebook, and 3 minutes a day! (Two minutes to find the notepad, one minute to jot.) 

2. Practice 3 minutes of mindfulness a day. Nope - not half an hour. Not even fifteen minutes. Find a miserly 3 minutes each day to commit to the practice over the long haul. You can always increase your dosage once you get into the groove.  

3. Up your ha-ha!  (And no, I'm not being rude). If you find yourself overdosing on Netflix, at least commit to this fun goal: Watch more comedy. Make it a goal to end each day with a good laugh.

4. Pick a positive, inspiring word, phrase or theme for the year. This doesn't require any big commitment. You don't even need a membership! Just think of something that will help guide you, something that will serve as a sort of mantra for you, especially during difficult times.

5. Learn how to do your own version of "the fun dance." According to my wife, this is the only dance I have mastered, and if I can master a dance, so can you! The nice thing about creating your own version of a fun dance is it's portable! You can use it anywhere! And you don't even require any music! You can tell I'm excited about this because I'm using so many exclamation marks!!