As 2018 starts, we've heard plenty of New Year's resolutions - we probably even have a few ourselves.

As you hit the ground running this year, keep in mind that you're only human. Set goals and try to better yourself. I'm all for that.

With that being said, don't set yourself up for failure. Don't stack the pile on your plate so high until it's shaking. Start small and realize that the little things are accomplishments too.

Remember that you are only in competition with yourselves and other people's goals are not necessarily yours. And that's okay.

If you're a perfectionist like me, this is likely difficult for you. You expect the most out of yourself, and you beat yourself up over small mistakes.

The truth is you're never going to perfect everything, no matter what it is.

There's going to be times we fail, or when the pile on our metaphorical plate starts to waver.

We have to be honest and realistic with ourselves. Push ourselves to be better, set goals, and challenge ourselves, but realize when we may be asking too much of ourselves.

There's going to be times we feel like we are excelling and conquering almost everything life is throwing at us, but there also may be times where we lose balance.

Do the best you can, and be happy with that. Some faults are inevitable, and sometimes the only way we learn better is by experiencing them.

Basically, don't ask the world of yourself this year. Find something to be proud of in every task, big or small. Know that not everything you do is going to be perfect, whether it's an assignment, a work task or even an aspect of a relationship.

Take this year day by day, and don't sweat the small stuff.