by Donna Maria

Happy New Year! For all the glory of the holidays, it's the actual start of a new year that really puts the previous year in perspective. As a new year begins, we can analyze the possibilities for the next 12 months in light of what happened during the previous ones. What were our goals back then? If we did not achieve them, should we try again? Or maybe we should adjust them slightly? Or maybe some things should be dropped from the list altogether? Whatever the case, a new 12- month time period is a chance to look at things through a new paradigm and with a fresh resolve to make our lives and the world a better place.

This month, take Just A Moment to:

1. Sit in silence and be thankful for the opportunity to start another year with more opportunities to touch people's lives in a positive way.

2. Think of one thing you can do to help someone else start the new year off on a happy note. Then do it.

3. Share the three most significant goals you have for 2006 with a trusted friend and ask her to hold you accountable by checking in with you mid-year to see how you are doing.