The clock struck 1/1/11.

What more evidence do we need that the way we live our lives gets to start over? We face fresh slates and new windows. In an instant, all of last year’s excuses related to the economy, lack of time, family pressure and “I’ll get to it later” are no longer valid. We have a somewhat blind sense of optimism and we begin living anew. All that said, unless you made the hard decisions to drive change for your life, nothing will really change. The pressure will soon mount, the weight will soon be gained, the time will soon evaporate, the money will soon be spent and the excuses will soon appear.

One of the most pressing issues is living the life one truly wants to live. To be someone who gets more from life through giving and to be the busy person who somehow finds the time to check more things off the wish list. We all seem to realize this, but lose the will to make a difference down the road. What holds us back from giving, doing, caring and being all we can be? Why does it take a resolution to get us going? With such procrastination, it’s no wonder our dreams take so long to become reality.

It doesn’t have to be this way. We should expect more. Why not start today? I am going to – and choose to use this forum to ask for accountability partners to help me along the way.

I am going to lose weight. Not the lose for half the year and gain back the other half. The lasting kind. I’m tired of stretchy pants and want to live as long as I can with the people I love.

I am going to be more present. I want to fully appreciate the blessings we have and always have the perspective to realize they are blessings.

I am going to live “off-line” more. Digital connectivity drives personal disconnection too often. I will be more aware of that (though still respond when Jordan calls!)

I am going to eliminate “should haves”. I intend to live even more as the role model I wish my kids to see me as, which is earned and not just gifted.

I am going to help the world move forward. There may be some big steps and some small steps, but no wasted steps.

I am going to not let anyone “yuck my yum.” I will have the will and attitude to make sure 2011 is the most prosperous year yet – in all senses of the word.

Happy New Year to all. I wish for you a fresh start on all you wish to be.