My biggest goal for this year is something that I've always struggled with, but never really noticed I had until I started making my list of resolutions. I'm all talk and no action. I'm making a promise to myself, and I am incredibly inspired to do so, to achieve all that I say and think I will. I'm giddy with excitement to reach for the things that I've always let pass by after I've used all my excuses until the chances are gone. I can't wait to put all my heart into working hard to save up money, and apply for tons of scholarships in order to go to a study abroad program in Paris this summer for fashion journalism and photography: my dream. I've also taken some inspiration from the movie Julie and Julia, in which I've decided to blog at a regular rate. Once a day might seem a little unrealistic in the crazy college world I live in, but I'm aiming for at least twice a week now. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to get these thoughts out. I pray that now that I've written them down, I may actually achieve them.

Alana, if my life - and the lives of every mentor or icon I've ever had - can serve as an example: there is POWER in writing down what you want! The very act of writing transforms those thoughts from dreams into a plan. And isn't a plan always better? We all "wish" for big things...but how many of us PLAN for those things?

The secret, readers, is that those who plan to succeed DO succeed. If oyu do just one thing for yourself this year, stop thinking about what you shoulda, would, coulda or might do. Instead, bust out an ink pen and paper and write down what you are GOING to do. It will change your life and the lives of those around you. Sound simple? It is. The difference between good and great is often created by a tiny bit of effort. This is that tiny bit of effort. So write... write it all down and make it happen!!!