A new year means a fresh start. Here are five resolutions a Fashionista should not only make, but keep.

Resolution #1: Kick a vice to the curb.

Before you hang your head in shame, remember that we all have them. Bad habits range from smoking to excessive tanning, over-eating to a sedentary lifestyle, and even abusive relationships to self-deprecation. It's not going to be easy to eliminate a vice, but a little hard work and determination can lead to good health and a better quality of life.

Resolution #2: Get organized.

How much easier would life be if your day-to-day tasks were managed properly? Getting organized isn't an unattainable feat. Start with a fresh dayplanner or electronic scheduling device of your choosing, and learn to manage your time wisely. In your home, practice the mantra "everything has its place." Instead of devoting thirty minutes to find your car keys (which were slung aside as soon as you walked in the door the night before), your time could be spent on more productive endeavors, like painting your nails or plucking your eyebrows.

Resolution #3: Carpe diem.

Life is short. No duh. Why are still resting on our laurels when we could be traveling the world, writing a bestselling book, learning to cook fine French food, or changing careers? Resolve to become an expert at something this year, and don't forget to try at least one new thing.

Resolution #4: Make a contribution.

The world and its people need your help. Feed a family, plant a tree, tutor a child, save the whales--or, it can be as simple as offering to walk an elderly woman across a busy street. Do it soon and do it often.

Resolution #5: Overhaul your attitude.

Nobody likes a sourpuss. Leave the bad attitude in 2006 and adopt some manners. It's surprising how a little politeness infused into your relationships, workplace, and everyday interactions can increase a positive outlook on life.







The practice of making New Year's resolutions is nothing new, yet keeping them is an old problem. Find someone to keep you accountable and reward yourself for a job well done. Most of all, don't give up. If March rolls around and you are still hanging on to the 20 pounds you swore you'd lose, start over. It's never too late. By 2008, you will find yourself with a powerful arsenal of healthy habits of which you can be proud.

What are your own resolutions?

Photos courtesy of BBC and FreeFoto.