7 Alternative New Year’s Resolutions

The first week of January is known for being one of the busiest days for new online dating sites, with over 50% of new members joining the day after New Year's, I thought it would be appropriate to think about a realistic resolutions list when it comes to matters of the heart. When it comes to matters of the heart, singles need to become reflective and take a good look at their dating patterns. Did you date the same type of people over-and-over again? Did your relationships sizzle at the three/six-month mark? Was it right to make it to a second date or past a third date? Is your list of the traits of your perfect mate too big or too small?

Most diets fail and most dieters regain all their weight plus some extra. Rather than relaunch yourself into this depressing cycle of yo-yo dieting, maybe do a bit of exercise and only have chocolate on weekends. Think about making yourself stronger rather than thinner - unless your doctor's advised you to lose or gain weight you're probably fine.

Write yourself a letter from your future self, dated 1/1/2016. Imagine looking back at 2015, from a place of having achieved your most important goal for the year. In your letter, thank your present self for all you did to achieve your goals-and be specific. Or give yourself some compassionate advice from your wiser, 2016 self. Research shows that connecting to your future self in this way can help you make a difficult change and succeed at your goals.

List your favourite memories and triumphs of 2015, including the challenges you faced with courage or humour (even if things didn't turn out the way you hoped). Studies show that remembering your strengths increases future perseverance and willpower; and reminiscing about the past increases future happiness.

Imagine the highlights of 2016. Make a list of at least 5 things to look forward to in the coming year, big or small. Anything from new episodes of a favourite TV show, a friend's wedding, taking your kid Trick-or-Treating for the first time, a trip you want to plan. Research shows that one of the best predictors of emotional health is the ability to anticipate and savour future pleasures.

Make a list of what you are grateful for in your life. Sure, New Year's is a great time to think about what you'd like to change about your life. But you'll be much happier if you first think about everything you're grateful for. In fact, if you make a gratitude list first, you might be surprised how it shapes your wish list for 2016. You'll have a clearer sense of what matters most to you, and a better vision of what you want the future to look like.

Make a 2016 commitment to someone else. Who says a New Year's resolution has to be about what's wrong with you, and how you should change? Honour something bigger than yourself with a financial commitment to a cause you care about. Most non-profit organizations will allow you to pledge a monthly donation for a one-year term. A side benefit: research shows that donating money boosts happiness and self-image--the perfect antidote to the self-critical resolution.