New memories define new year

New year, new resolutions, new memories.

Counting down the seconds until the ball drops, vowing for a new year that is full of changes. Friends, family gathered around, happiness is in the air.

This is the moment when our priorities are questioned; making a mental list of things we'd like to change.

A crystal ball is not needed to look ahead or back on the things we wish we would've done (or not done, in that case.)

Repetition is something that people may be used to in their day-to-day lives, but once the year is over a new year should spark new dreams.

This mental list should remind you there still are things that need to be accomplished.

In 2010, what do you want to be different? Sure, you said something silly out loud in front of your family and friends-but there should also be the resolution that is completely selfish.

Did you spend the whole year with an ex you said you'd never give a second (or third) chance? What about those extra pounds you may have gained caused by stress? And don't forget about all that money you spent that should've been saved.

A study done by the U.S. government states that most people's New Year's resolutions are about losing weight, managing debt, saving money, getting a better job, quitting smoking and drinking less alcohol.

Instead of taking the time to think about what your New Year's resolution was for 2009, spend time thinking about what it should be for 2010. Write it down on paper, or even on your bathroom mirror. When you're about to go on that date with your ex or think about eating those last two twinkies-go read it.

And instead of spending extra time thinking about all the things that could've been different this year, think about what steps you can take now to make 2010 even better.

Sticking to these resolutions is the most important part. While they may seem extra important for the first couple of weeks after the year has begun, when remembered, they could have greater success

With that little push (or that little message written on your mirror), maybe 2010 can be filled with new people and better experiences. However, this is the part that's up to you.

Here's to 2010-hopefully full of new things you can look back on and smile at a year later.