Today, the first day of the year, the first day of the rest of your life, offers the clean slate of newness--the making of resolutions to do better, accomplish more. A time to celebrate life by making a positive change and realizing a dream.

Yesterday is history. Today is a fresh beginning. It is a good day to set a goal and commit to achieve it. If you are breaking a habit or looking for a change, find the resources to help you do this.

Reflect, think it through, and come up with a plan.

For example, to quit smoking, you need to decide what support system you will tap, what method you will use, and how you will cope with cravings.

Yes, come up with a plan. With keen desire commit to do it, and you are on your way. As President Theodore Roosevelt once said, "Believe you can and you are halfway there."

Next, implement the resolution. Do the things that will bring about the change. Over and over until the steps are routine. Standing firm, move forward, and try not to backslide.

“A goal properly set is halfway reached,” said President Abraham Lincoln. Push toward the goal... and help others get there, too. There is strength in numbers and mentoring works!

Your desire will awaken the great slumbering power within you. It's a new year--take a chance. You can do anything. As the ancient Greek philosopher Homer taught, "Wise to resolve, and patient to perform."

Take heart: a great slumbering power resonates within.