Hopefully if you’ve picked one of these traditional resolutions, you’re still focused on it as you read this.

But how about we add one more to the list for 2017...

Starting today, let’s have a collective New Year’s resolution to be positive.

Positive in all elements of life, including on-line.

It’s no secret that the negativity in our society – locally and internationally – is reaching outrageous proportions and is becoming the norm.

Especially on-line.

From road rage to keyboard warriors, it seems for the majority of society the default setting is negativity.

Hiding behind a computer brings out the most hateful side of humans. Check any public Facebook page.

Don’t get me wrong – healthy debate and conversation is the key to progression – but how about we do it with a positive energy. 

Support each other.

Encourage each other.

Think on the brighter side of life.

Remember we all make mistakes and we’re all our own worst critic. There is no need to cut someone down when they are already suffering. 

While you’re chewing on that celery stick or mapping out a budget for the year ahead – here’s a simple Google answer to ‘How to be positive?’

And the best bit about practicing positivity in 2017 – it’s scientifically proven that happy people have less stress meaning they’re more likely to quit smoking, drink less alcohol, save more money and lose weight. 

So next time you feel the urge to ‘have a go’ – in life or on-line – remember you’re not only hurting those around you but you’re also hurting yourself.

"Happiness depends upon ourselves." - Aristotle.