Typical new year’s resolutions include losing weight, quitting smoking and keeping fit. By now we all know what the benefits are and what we should do.

We also know that these resolutions don’t last very long unless you are really motivated.

When it comes to a new year, it means we turn a new page and there is that spark of curiosity and anticipation into starting a new year afresh.

You may have had an awful year that you quickly want to forget or a wonderful year or somewhere in between but the start of 2019 should give us hope.

So how do we approach the journey in 2019?

You may have things you are already looking forward to. Becoming a parent or grandparent, a planned overseas holiday, a wedding or a new job, pet or house to make your life complete.

That’s what makes the world interesting - we are not the same yet we feel shared experiences in the same way.

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So what can you do for 2019?

Give compliments

If you notice someone has done a good job or is wearing an awesome outfit, express that sincerely. Note that fake compliments fall flat and the recipient can nearly always tell the difference.

Give your children praise when it’s due instead of constant complaints and criticism. Compliment your partner too - for every criticism there should be at least five compliments.

Be generous

Wise people know that money and possessions don’t count for very much in the scheme of things.

While there’s nothing wrong with money or a nice house, there is something wrong when it is your sole focus and you are never satisfied with what you have.

Help others

Get involved if you feel prompted and even when you don’t! Be careful that you don’t interfere or cause more harm than good but helping someone will make your day.

Do acts of random kindness – you’ll feel better too.

Smile

Just smiling will make you feel happier. A genuine smile not a fake one. Laugh at funny things - you don’t stop laughing when you grow old, you grow old when you stop laughing.

Be positive

Some people are naturally more positive than others and that’s OK if you see the glass half empty instead of half full. Look for solutions and accept challenges.

Thinking positively might make us healthier but being healthier may also lead us to think positively.

Be adventurous

Life can be a rut so try new things and get out of your comfort zone sometimes. Take up a new hobby or sport and book that holiday.

Of course there are many other positive changes you can do. The world is a mirror - smile and the world smiles with you.