Are you setting a resolution for the new year? 

Does it involve exercising more? Or maybe this is the year you’re going to get your finances in order? 

The resolutions that top the lists are the same year after year for most people, and the outlook for success is fairly bleak. The research shows just 9 percent of people see their new year’s resolutions through to completion, while a quarter of Americans can’t even stick with the plan for an entire week! 

My own track record is hardly one to crow about. I’ve resolved to do everything from eat better to take more photographs over the years, all with the best of intentions and the worst of follow-through. 

So this year, I’ve decided to do something a little bit different. My resolutions? They’re not going to be about me at all. 

Instead, I’m resolving to ... 

1. Give more people the benefit of the doubt. 

2. Say more kind things about the individuals, organizations and businesses that deserve it. 

3. Write more thank you notes. 

4. Do more favors. 

5. Leave more nice comments on social media ... just because. 

6. Let more cars merge in front of me. 

7. Do more of the tasks my husband hates. 

It’s an ambitious list; I know. But if resolving to improve myself wasn’t working, I’d like to try improving the world.