Most of us make resolutions to improve ourselves as a New Year begins. This year - as we begin a new century and a new millennium - the task seems more daunting than ever. It's wonderful to have a focus (and a deadline) for thinking about positive change. But it's also very important not to set ourselves up for failure. Here are three simple suggestions for making resolutions you can keep:

Give your resolution list a reality check. Have you set achievable goals, or are you expecting too much of yourself?

Once you've set realistic goals, break them down into smaller goals that you can work toward. That way you can enjoy daily and weekly success instead of waiting for an endpoint that could be months away.

Finally, be tough but kind to yourself. Take responsibility: expect yourself to achieve the short- and long-term goals you've set. But if you slip - and this happens occasionally to all of us - don't be so hard on yourself that it becomes counter productive. Rather, encourage yourself to get back on track. Eventually, you will succeed.

I wish you a happy, healthy 2000 - may you be strong in every way!