Usually, New Year's resolutions mean defining what you should NOT be doing any more.  Resolutions are traditionally about "taking away" our vices:

1. Stop smoking

2. Stop eating - lose weight

3. Stop being lazy - exercise more

When it comes to work, we sometimes make resolutions like:

1. Stop complaining

2. Say "no" to extra projects that require working above and beyond the call of duty

3. Stop gossping

4. Stop feeling guilty about being at work

5. Stop feeling guilty about NOT being at work

But what about turning 2013's resolutions on their heads?  This year, create POSITIVE resolutions.  Rather than defining what you WON'T do, describe what you WILL do.  By creating resolutions that applaud what you are doing well - and encourage you to do more of it - you will feel better about yourself (instead of worse!).  And, you are more likely to succeed.

1.  While at work, continue to focus on projects with a certain person

2. Focus on projects that continue to develop communication skills (or finance, negotiation, writing, presentation, technical, etc.)

3. Continue healthy eating (and cost control) by bringing lunch to work 3 days a week.  Make my lunch with kids in the morning to encourage them to make healthy lunches too.

4. Make Thursday night game night.  Turn off cell phones/laptops/TV's/tablets and PLAY as a family together for one hour

5. Take turns (with spouse/partner) doing homework with kids

6. Set aside one night a month for a date night that can be as simple as a picnic

7. Let kids make dinner once a week - and eat whatever they make!

8. Love who I am as a mother

9. Love who I am as a careerist

10. Know that my family loves me

Share your goals with your family.  Saying them in a positive way shows your kids how to love themselves too - it builds their self-esteem and self-confidence because you are leading by example.  Plus - sharing in your goals makes resolutions a family affair and makes you more likely to succeed.

Happy 2013!