Sure you could make a resolution like "Stop drinking soda," or "Work out three times a week." But maybe this year you could try something new that will improve not only your life, but the lives of those around you. Here are 10 resolutions that you should actually keep.

1. Be kind to others.

Your smile could be the only positive thing they receive that day.

2. Give someone a compliment everywhere you go.

Everyone needs a little confidence boost sometimes. Compliments are far too scarce; let's change that.

3. Be encouraging.

Allow yourself to engage in encouraging the abilities of those around you.

4. Allow yourself to be more selfish sometimes, and more selfless other times.

There is a fine line, that I am yet to find, between rightfully selfish and rightfully selfless. Both of these characteristics can turn into negative ones if one takes over the other. Find your balance and embrace that.

5. Be grateful.

There is always someone who has less than you; someone who is struggling more than you; someone who wants what you have. Take notice to your family, friends, abilities, and even material items, and be thankful.

6. Talk to someone who needs a friend.

Be there for those who you haven't talked to much. Everyone needs someone to talk to, and you never know who might be bottling things up inside.

7. Allow yourself to be confident.

Don't bring yourself down. Reassure yourself that you are great.

8. Don't compare yourself to others.

You are your own person. Everyone is different. And that is okay.

9. Listen to others with an open mind.

Less talking, more listening, less judging. Everyone comes from different walks of life and has different views.

10. Love more; laugh more; worry less.

This is a piece of advice to carry with you always. Life is short, make the best of it.