It's the moment we've all been waiting for, welcoming in the new year. For most, that means new diets, working out, planning vacations to new destinations, finishing the projects that were once started but never completed or building a vocabulary. One of which is actually permissible in church and around children. To the person who curses like a sailor that means you. Whether or not you're a believer in new year's resolutions here are a few tips to help make this year a great one.

A great way to get this year started off on the right foot is by setting goals. Think about everything you want to see change, places you want to see, and milestones you wish to accomplish and write them down.

Having a journal, notebook or a simple piece of paper with your goals written down makes all the difference in the beginning. Often times the hardest part is getting started but having a place with your goals written down offers a motivation of its own. Aside from the image on your already long mental list of things to do.

Take on each day on with a purpose. After you have an idea of the things you want to accomplish, create smaller goals that will lead you to accomplish the ultimate goal. Things that you can do each day as if taking small steps to prepare you for the giant leap by the end of the year. Tackle each day with this question. What can I do today that will help create the stepping stone to reaching my goals?

The most common reason we may not reach our full potential to accomplishing anything is out of fear. Fear of judgment, failure, the talk of other's noise in our ears that aren't as supportive, and the fear of actually challenging ourselves to what we're truly capable of achieving. In order to do the things we want we have to trade fear for confidence.

Self-confidence isn't the easiest to gain but when there is something we set our minds to accomplishing there's no stopping it from happening. Just as our passions are led by a burning flame lit within that no drop of water can put out, the goals set for ourselves can't be stopped in their tracks by anyone or anything. When we want something bad enough confidence finds determination and take over.

There may be setbacks but don't let anything hold you back from what you really want. The only thing you have to be afraid of is regret that you didn't take a chance.

Find a good friend to encourage you and motivate you. By the time February creeps in our goals have already been abandoned because we doubt ourselves while counting the long months yet to come. Having someone to keep you accounted for, staying on top of your goals gives you an extra confidence booster. They may be able to offer the advice and encouragement you've been needing to hear to keep from giving up. Setting goals together with good friends can also be fun while the power of friendship kicks in.

Take life by the hand and live. Take risk. Take advantage of opportunities, even the smallest can lead you to unexpected things. Be the person you want to be, do the things that have been tugging at your heart, and say yes to stepping outside of your comfort zone. Reach for your goals to live the life you want.