Punt doesn't make resolutions or set goals, yet I have found success in life. Honestly, in the corporate world and in the world of personal growth and development, I often find good, well meaning people making resolutions and setting personal goals, but they unfortunately usually fail, or fall back after having achieved some gains. Sustainment is often the hardest thing, so I recommend making life-long decisions. There are all kinds of losers out there "trying". Those that succeed with purely individual time-based goals are often unbalanced in career and life, and perceived by their peers as nasty and inconsistent. Team goals and personal commitment are more effective in life, love, spirit, and vocational excellence. There is freedom in decisions. As Yoda said, "there is no try, just do". To truly change, you must get deep clarity on what YOU WILL DO and what YOU WON'T DO, and WHY. The WHY needs to have a greater good in mind. Then do it (or don't do it if it's a "stop-it" thing). Anything in between is for losers. It is not about luck or circumstances. Like Minnesota Fats said, "luck is for suckers". If you want to accomplish anything seriosly in life, stop trying and start making committted decisions. Decisions that you will check yourself on and stick to. Or else don't bother. Seriously, you are better off deferring lame attempts until you are ready to make a life-long decision.
For 2014, I WILL re-connect genuinely with a perticular long-lost friend, complete two courses in fields of science or sociology that are new to me, maintain my current body weight while improving my dietary consciousness and standardizing my workout routine, and save $25K that I would likely otherwise squander. These are decisions I have made. They will be successful. I have no doubt about it. There will be no reasons or excuses. It will simply be me and the mirror. I am beyond accountability. I am truly committed. There will be no obstacles I can not overcome. I have decided.
Punt.