Human resolve is a potent elixir. It can bring you what you've always wanted and it can burn you, too! If you've ever declared a New Year's resolution, you know what I mean. Sometimes applying that extra focus and force is just what the problem called for, and sometimes the added pressure results in disappointment and failure. Do you want to know how to get your potion just right this year? All you'll need is a few simple instructions and to know what it means to be human.

Resolutions come in three formulations. Each one is very different, and you need to handle them according to their own unique properties.

Formula A (most volatile):  "I resolve to HAVE something."

Formula B (volatile):  "I resolve to DO something."

Formula C (stable):  "I resolve to BE something."

If you have declared that you're going to get that new job, that new house, or that new boyfriend or girlfriend this year, then you're handling Formula A, the most volatile of your options. With having, many elements must be in place for your resolution to come to fruition. Think of the strategizing and the stress of wondering if you're doing it right. What about when you hit a bump along the way and lose hope? What if it doesn't happen right away? Your resolution could easily go up in smoke. Formula A is not for beginners, and supervision is recommended. Some people turn to a coach for help pinpointing their motivation and setting smart goals

If your New Year's resolution is to get into action, then you're handling Formula B. Maybe you said, "I'm going to start exercising!" or "I'm going to cut back on shopping!" or "I'm going to start dating!" Committing to do something new or different this year can be very powerful, and yet you'll still need to proceed cautiously because this formula can blow up without warning. When you make resolutions of this kind you may start out strong and full of anticipation, but when the going gets tough and the expected results are not forthcoming, you may get discouraged. You might even conclude that you'll never be able to achieve your goal. With Formula B, you’ll want to get support from a buddy or coach. Ask someone to hold you accountable for achieving measurable goals. Keep motivated after a set-back by remembering how great it will be when you get what you want.

You cannot go wrong with Formula C. It is the stable form of New Year's resolution and is therefore the most highly recommended for anyone who wants success this year. To be something is always within your power. You can declare your resolution to "be spontaneous" or "be loving" this year, for example. Likewise, you can let everyone know that 2007 is the year you're going to be courageous, be generous or be a person of your word. If you're clumsy and drop your resolution, the worst thing that can happen is that you stop being what you resolved to be for a while. Then, you simply pick it up and start being it again.

With being, anyone can succeed. You are not reliant on circumstances, you don't have to buy any special equipment, and you don't even have to have a plan. It's foolproof. And, since being comes before any doing or having, it is a primary element in the other formulas. You will end up doing all the things you want to do, and that will lead you to having anything you want to have.

What will you resolve to be this year?