As 2013 comes to a close, we tend to look retrospectively on the past year and take account of our accomplishments and tasks that are left undone. Whatever these may be, we should look ahead with optimism for a great year planned ahead of us. Every year, many people around the world create New Year’s resolutions to help create a better year.

The tradition of New Year’s resolution has its origin dating back to 153 B.C. The Romans prayed to God Janus, who was represented with two faces that look toward the past and the future.

The Romans believed in good beginnings and believed that if the first sacrifice was not favorable, or the victim escaped, then a second offering had to be made. The omen was considered to be bright when the first sacrifice turned out favorable. Another custom of good beginnings that is prevalent even today is lifting the bride over the threshold of her new home to avoid tripping at any time. If tripping did occur, it would be considered unfortunate and calamitous. This whole process was believed to bring favorable beginnings if done right.

According to the Roman Praenestine calendar, presents were exchanged on Jan. 1 because they were believed to bring good fortune to the new year. There was a belief that the beginning of the new year determined the character of the remainder of the year. It was also extremely crucial to think and speak good resolution on the first day of the new year so that the rest of the year was made pleasant.

Besides the historical views, creating a New Year’s resolution will help us all stay focused and have something to work on/look forward to in the upcoming 2014 year. This list can be added on to throughout the year when needed.

• Keep it simple: Keep resolutions simple so that they are easy to follow and are a part of your daily routine.

• Stay organized

• Meet some new people this year

• Do something new. It could be sport, an instrument or reading a new genre of books.

• Less procrastination.

• Stay more focused/dedicated to the work you are doing.

• Eat healthy

Build upon your resolutions and allow flexibility. In course of time, you might even realize your goals have changed totally to what you started with.

Create a schedule/calendar: Review your list of resolutions and try to lay them out so that they are accomplished over multiple periods of time rather than just one day.

Always be proud of your accomplishment, never be discouraged and continue with grit because obstacles and failures will be the stepping stones to a successful and amazing year ahead.

The year 2013 was amazing, and let’s make 2014 even better!

Lisa Marie Dias is a Redmond High School freshman.