Based on my age and stage in life, I've had quite a number of New Year celebrations. I've done the countdowns and seen the fireworks. I've made resolutions, some I could keep and others that didn't stand a chance. Through it all, one thing I have learnt is that you can't go into a New Year with an old mind. It doesn't matter how much wishing is done if the mind remains the same, nothing changes. We all know that doing the same thing over and over again while expecting different results is the true definition of lunacy. A new year with an old mind is pretty much just an old year.

Because I am determined to really have a brand new year, I am consciously saying goodbye to 2017 and mentally ushering in 2018. There is so much to do before the clock strikes 12 tonight. I am suddenly feeling like Cinderella. There are a few thoughts, feelings and emotions that need to be aligned; a few people that must come with me in 2018 and a couple that absolutely need to be left behind. I am excited and mindful with a renewed sense of purpose. It's time to get to work and make 2017 look like a dress rehearsal compared to 2018.