Every new year that rolls around, you probably spend ten minutes writing up a list of resolutions that is comprised mostly of stuff you wrote down last year.

Which is normal. You get that surge of motivation that this year is going to be different. You’ll be more productive, try new things, and step on the stair-master.

If that hasn’t worked before, try this: think about all the lessons you’ve learned in 2011 and make a point to apply them for the next 365 days. Here are some of my lessons that can use to give yourself a head start:

1) What’s done is done. Focus on next steps.

It’s easy to dwell on your mistakes. It’s better to focus on fixing it or learning from it. You can’t be perfect, so stop killing yourself over it and move forward. Don’t miss out on opportunities because you’re regretting your mistakes.

2) Stay calm.

My manager frequently reminds me that “It’s only toilet paper, nobody’s gonna die over it.” Needless to say, I work in then pulp and paper industry. Anyway, his point was quite clear. Unless somebody’s life is on the line, you have the capacity to stay calm. Trust me.

3) Be nice, just because.

There is a lot of contradictory advice on how to be successful. Most people, especially in the corporate world, will tell you that being nice won’t get you anywhere. But that’s not quite true. What they mean to say is that you have to be assertive, be ruthless in your pursuit, and do what it takes to get things done. Don’t mix the two ideas up. I know plenty of successful people who are not assholes, and I’m sure you know some too if you think about it.

Use my 3 resolutions to give you a head start on your list. I’ll post my entire list once I figure it out (I know, delayed as always).

Happy new year and all the best. Remember, this is your year.