Need Ideas for Your New Year's Resolutions?

Ah, a new year...a fresh start and a clean slate. It's traditional to make a promise to one's self on New Year's to set a goal for the coming months, to make the most of the new year.

If you've been contemplating your resolutions but aren't too sure what to do, here are a few suggestions, courtesy of Warren resident Brielle LaCosta, Miss New Jersey Galaxy 2011, owner of HouseofMotivation.com and certified life coach, who offered these thoughts for New Year's resolutions.

1. Don't let the small things make you forget how fortunate you really are. "To do this, I am going to do something which Miss Texas did last year—it's called '365 Days of Happiness.' Each day she took one picture of something that made her happy as she went about her day—it ranged from big things to small things- a pretty flower, her dog, a favorite meal, a picture of her with family, etc. Anything that made her happy! She made a scrapbook, and put it online for everyone to see and it was pretty inspiring. It basically says being happy doesn't mean life is perfect, happiness is all in your way of thinking. I would encourage anyone to stick to this for a solid year—one photo a day! It is also a great way to remember the year."

2. Do something you have always wanted to do, and dream big! "I always tell people this, if you never take a shot you will never know. Whether it be a trip, or taking up a new hobby, running a marathon, it is never too late to achieve your goals! I didn't start pageants until I was 22 years old, and look now! People too weak to follow their own dreams will always find a way to discourage yours—don't let them do that this year!"

3. Pack a lunch! "People buy a snack or meal from a restaurant on an average of 5.8 times per week, mostly for lunch, which can total anywhere from $50-$70 per week. Packing a lunch is like a bonus paycheck! Do something fun with the money saved, or put it towards debt or bills."

4. Take time out of your schedule to make someone else feel special.  "Call an older relative who you know is lonely, spend special time with your children, or call that great-aunt who lives across the country who no one visits. I sent my grandmother who lives in California a simple 'thinking of you' card back in October, and she still thanks me for it."

And if losing weight or improving your health is on your list, LaCosta suggests:

5. Cut out soda: "So last year, for the entire duration of 2011, I made a resolution to avoid fast food—that meant no McDonald's, Burger King, Sonic, Wendy's, KFC, etc! Not only did I avoid fast food from these places, I also didn't even allow myself to stop there when I was thirsty, so no soda, juice, etc., from any of them either! I am so proud I actually was able to do this. The only 'fast food' places I went to were Panera Bread and Subway (voted healthiest in America!).
"I think the no fast food resolution is a good one, saves tons and tons of calories. "The only reason I drink soda now is to cure a headache. Here's a site that shows perfectly what soda does to your body after drinking it—more people should really avoid it."