I stopped making New Year's resolutions about six or seven years ago. Instead of looking forward and making plans, I started instead to look back at the months already fading away in life's rear-view mirror and name three things I did well—or even just well enough. This way, I start the year with a pat on the back, not a kick in the ass. (Life itself is pretty good at doling out those kicks without assistance from me, thank you very much.) Read more >