The new year is fast approaching.

The closer it comes, the more we hear about the ever-persistent New Year’s Resolution.
It is an opportunity to start anew and make any changes in ourselves we so desire. This is true, and resolutions are good ideas that can really help people better themselves and those around them.

Yet I notice a consistent problem with New Year’s Resolutions – people set goals that are too unattainable.

I say we change things up a bit, keep people on their toes by not only setting attainable goals, but also have some fun and set goals that are completely absurd.

There are several goals I am setting come Jan. 1, 2010. My first goal is to make it to 2011. I assume most of you have the same goal. I am just putting it in writing.

Also, more typically, I would like to get back into some sort of shape, preferably a shape which allows me to run a few miles without dying or passing out.

I also tend to be a pretty scattered person and try to do about one million things at a time. I think 2010 will be the year I start focusing on only a few things on a time. I’d say no more than three is a goal I can master.

And speaking of being scattered, I am going to attempt to be more organized this upcoming year. Put things in their proper place, fold my clothes, etc.

That is four goals so far for 2010, but I’m not finished. My other goals are a tad less practical than the previous ones. These are just for fun.

Come January, it will be my goal to give five strangers high fives in one day. I’ll just walk up to someone and say, “High five?” Sure, people might think I’m a little (or very) strange but, if they get a kick out of it, then I’m satisfied.

I have worked in food service since I was 16 and, I’ll be honest, it can get a little mundane. So I am going to try to come up with as many ways to say, “Have a great day” to my customers as I can.

Not only will this supply me with endless entertainment, but I know that if some long-haired barista told me, “I hope your day goes swimmingly, sir!” I’d be excited about it.

My last goal, however, is more in line with my original goals. It’s practical. I am going to do my best to keep a pleasant demeanor most of the time, because positive (and negative) moods rub off on other people.

Ever sit next to that person who is so irritated to be in class? That always frustrates me. And I, as most people, like to be in a good mood, so I’m going to try and do my part.

Remember, don’t get too serious or illogical with your New Year’s Resolutions. Keep them attainable and have some fun with them.

E-mail the author: Michael L. Hoffman