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THE notion of New Year resolutions raises different feelings among different people. Some doubt the worth of resolutions in real life, while others doubt their ability to stick to their own resolutions. Some feel saddened over their past disap- pointments with resolutions, while others desire to make new, bolder ones. So why should one make New Year resolutions in the first place? Is there a way to turn reso- lutions from wishful thinking into reality? Considering the extremely low success rate of resolutions made on New Year's Eve, many are those who would like to leave this custom to others. Why fail again? What is the point? You must however, be aware that the process of making resolu- tions offers a three-in-one opportunity. First, there is no other time of the year when the whole atmosphere is so perfect to relax, reflect and look forward. The window of opportunity is small, however, it is like half-time in a basketball game. The first half is gone, with the second due to start soon. Now is the time to breathe, think and plan how you can do better in the rest of the game. The second side to this opportunity is about desires. Making resolutions ena- bles you to get in touch with your deep- est desires. When an alcoholic thinks to himself: "I should quit drinking", it reflects his deepest desire. If not for the ritual of resolutions, you would continue to drink, smoke and gain weight without an annual reminder that, deep inside, you want to quit. The third characteristic is about the thrill of challenging yourself. Who would argue that making resolutions is like taking a test with little confidence of passing it? It is easy to live an unchallenged, safe life; it is difficult to be challenged and face the failure. Resolutions made quickly in a sudden rush of inspiration are bound to disappear sooner than you can imagine. Making reso- lutions should not be an event, it should be a process. Make an appointment with yourself to sit alone in a quiet place. Reflect on the past and dream about the future. What would you like to be different in the coming year and why? Desire is not resolution. Resolution means specific action steps to fulfill a desire. Recognise your deepest desires and ask yourself what can be done. Clarity is important. One sure way to achieve clarity is to write down the resolutions. The best way to improve the chances of success is to make a few but profound resolutions. Go for quality, not quantity. Once you have zeroed in on a few resolu- tions, think about the difficulties and challenges ahead. Imagine yourself doing what you wish to do and enjoying success. Imagine overcoming the temptations to break the resolutions. The more you chew over them, the better will be the chances of success. Help yourself by writing your resolutions in an e-mail and scheduling it to come to you, for instance, every Wednesday morning. Dedicate each of your resolutions to someone you love. For example, if you wish to quit smoking, dedicate this resolu- tion to someone you really care about your children, mother or spouse for instance. Let your love for them strengthen your resolve. Despite all the keys, if you fail, do not forget the ultimate key: Keep trying until you fail to fail! maltatoday Christmas Christmas Sticking to your New Year resolutions