6 transformative New Year's resolutions

Don't wear yourself down with insurmountable goals; check out these six truly transformative New Year's resolutions.

Optimism is a good place to start. Wise women and men preach the power of positive thinking by adopting mantras like, "attitude is everything," and "you attract more bees with honey than with vinegar."

While philanthropy doesn't always fit a vacuum-tight budget, it's not the only opportunity for living generously. The best things in life are free, right? Let the elderly go first in line at the grocery store, help a pregnant woman carry her groceries or simply hold open a public door with a smile and a nod. The smallest gesture can truly turn someone's entire day around.

An easy resolution for the New Year is to practice more appreciation for things, moments and people. This goes beyond minding one's manners by saying "thank you," and means telling a person you love them and appreciate their friendship, loyalty or love. Follow it up with a simple hug or handshake.

While being nice and thankful to others, remember to apply the practice to yourself, as well. This doesn't mean spending time in the mirror every morning basking in your own greatness, but instead of picking yourself apart, try appreciating at least one thing that you like about your own appearance.

In the spirit of self-love, another realistic resolution is the exquisite art of loving one's self. It's an important practice, and necessary to give you the strength to help and be kind to others. Before you get buried in your responsibilities to others, take some time to take care of yourself.

You don't get points for being busy, and holding yourself to that standard leads to burnout and resentment.

So, slow down. Take a breath. Take a break. Relax.

Once you're able to, re-evaluate all of those tasks that have you running in every direction, and figure out which ones you really need to be doing and which can be delegated to someone else, or forgotten entirely.