Welcome to 2026!

It’s that time again—the new year is upon us! With the last year behind us, this fresh start offers hope for new beginnings.

Now’s a great opportunity to shed old, harmful habits and embrace healthier ones. I’d like to share a collection of New Year’s resolutions that have been popular among my readers. This is inspired by the original Al-Anon creed, which my late mother, Pauline Phillips, once shared.

Today only: I will live Only for today. I won’t dwell on what happened yesterday or get too attached to tomorrow. I won’t set overwhelming long-term goals or try to tackle everything at once. Instead, I’ll focus on what I can do in just 24 hours.

Today only: I choose to be happy. I’ll steer clear of negative thoughts. If I find my mind clouded with worries, I’ll replace those thoughts with brighter ones.

Today only: I’ll accept things as they are. I will face reality directly—fixing what I can and accepting what I can’t change.

Today only: I will challenge my mind. I’ll read something that requires effort and thought. I won’t let myself drift aimlessly in spiritual matters.

Today only: I will strive to make sure those around me feel valued. I’ll be kind and respectful, avoid gossip, dress with intention, speak gently, and listen without interrupting. Just for today, I’ll focus on improving myself rather than trying to change others.

Today only: I’ll take a positive step toward better health. If I smoke, I’ll quit. I might even get up from the couch and take a brisk walk, even if it’s just around the block.

Today only: I will have the courage to act rightly and take responsibility for my choices.

Speaking of reflections, I want to share a thought from one of my readers, LJ Bhatia, in New Delhi, India.

Dear Abby: This year, I have no resolutions—just a few guidelines. The sacred Vedas tell us, “Man is often enslaved by self-inflicted bonds. Wisdom comes to those who honor the true and eternal laws of nature.”

The Prayer of St. Francis strikes a deep chord:

Lord, make me a channel of your peace.

Let love replace hatred.

Forgive any hurts.

In moments of uncertainty, help me to trust.

Amid despair, may I find hope.

Where there is darkness, may I find light.

In sadness, may I discover joy.

O divine master,

I do not seek comfort but wish to console.

I wish to be understood, and in turn, understand.

To be loved, and to love.

Because in giving, we find receiving.

In forgiveness, we find being forgiven,

And through dying, we are reborn into eternal life.

Wishing all readers a year filled with health, peace, and joy. — Love, Abby