It’s a new year, a new day, a new chance. Is this starting to sound like a Weight Watchers commercial?

Anyway…when the clock strikes twelve on January 1st of a new year, it seems like we all embark on some kind of personal mission to change our ways, do something different, or upgrade à la Beyoncé. But for most mere mortals, a total life makeover is an undertaking entirely too ambitious for those of us who are already busy with a job, a four-legged friend, and a calendar overflowing with social commitments (you little former Prom Queen, you)

So before you resolve to lose 55 pounds, run a marathon, or donate half your salary to Oprah’s school in Africa, here are some ideas for easier changes that can instantly make a big difference. Good luck, and Happy New Year!

1. Make a (minor) change.

Feng Shui your room. Start a blog. Find a hobby. Go on a date. Chop your crop…emphasis on the word “chop.” Unless you’re part of the female empowerment movement in the 90′s, there’s no need to roam the streets of your town looking like Sinead O’Connor or Susan Powter. In the immortal words of Sheryl Crow, “A change would do you good,” especially when you’re feeling stuck in a rut, or craving some excitement. Look at it as a chance to try or explore something different, whether it’s sweating your ass off as a new Bikram student, taking a class at the Cupcake Institute, or starting an account on PartyBingo.com (which, um, by the way, I may or may not be addicted to).

2. Write it down, silly.

Studies (yes, actual studies that I did not make up) have shown that you’re more apt to follow through with a goal or a change when you actually write it down. You’re more likely to hold yourself accountable, remember what your priorities should be, and less likely to forget after a wild night out with liquid BFFs Jameson, and Jack. So when you commit to a new plan that’s important to you, jot it down. Especially if you’ve been drinking…

3. Plan a trip.

We’ve all been there. The holidays can be super stressful. After braving the malls crowed with crazed shoppers, attending holiday parties with co-workers you don’t even like, and talking a teary-eyed Aunt Mildred through her recent divorce over Thanksgiving dinner, there is no shame in needing a break after your winter break. Luckily, this can easily be fixed by booking a flight to a city you’ve never seen, calling up that bed and breakfast your friends have been raving about, or planing a long weekend of stumbling your way through wine country.

All that holiday cheer left you broke and destitute? Start a Pintrest account and start collecting ideas for the day when you can book that weekend away. Consider it research.

4. Do something for someone else.

Color me selfish, but doing things for other people makes you feel better about yourself. Involving yourself in community service, giving food to the needy, or donating your time someone less fortunate is the emotional equivalent of killing two birds with one stone. Not only do you get the chance to help others, but in turn, you’re also helping yourself. Plus, you probably need to make up for lingering bad karma you racked up during your last trip to Vegas.

You know I’m right…