A lot of my friends with small children are in full-on optimist mode. It seems like every one of them is resolving to make big changes for their families in the New Year.

Tis the season, right?

While I envy their optimism and drive, part of me wonders if they’ll end 2013 delighted by their accomplishments or disappointed by their shortfalls.

Me, I’m trying to be more reasonable when it comes to resolutions. I’ve been burned in the past. Actually, I can remember only one year in the last 10 that I’ve actually met my resolution — getting bikini ready for a Spring Break trip to Key West.

Starting off 2013, I am far from bikini ready, but with a 17-month-old son that requires near constant monitoring, I have to be realistic and acknowledge that this year is not one for big goals.

According to a study in the University of Scranton Journal of Clinical Psychology, 45 percent of Americans make New Years resolutions, but only 8 percent of those who resolve to break a habit or change in the coming year actually succeed. 

So, instead of making a resolution doomed for failure, I’m adopting a new philosophy: You can take little steps to big changes. And instead of posting my resolution to Facebook for all the world to see, which appears to be a popular trend right now, I’m going to put a little note inside my credit card wallet reminding me to take those little steps.

This philosophy, however, didn’t satisfy the optimist in me. I did just drop a big fat chunk of change on a new juicer and a pair of Vibram Five Fingers shoes (yes, those shoes) to inspire me to take more little steps.

And perhaps even some big steps, too.

Have a resolution? Starting something new in 2013? Tell me about it at jo@bubblelifemedia.com.