Self-help books (and CDs, DVDs, seminars, retreats and sweat lodges) are a billion dollar industry. Save your coin and listen to my Ten Things You Can Do for Yourself in the New Year.

10) Don't listen to what people tell you about bettering yourself - if the message is coming to your via email or the Internet. But if it's coming from your best friends or family, open your ears.

9) Eat right. Exercise left. Sleep down the middle.

8) Tell the people you love that you love them. Don't hint or joke or insinuate. TELL THEM PLAIN AND SIMPLE. Any moment could be your last; don't let such a simple, pure message be left unsaid.

7) Wear red; don't charge and overspend yourself into it.

6) Keep your faith, whatever you keep faith in: a God, family, a way of life, a glass vase. No matter how down you may be, feel better because someone somewhere in the world is way, way worse off than you.

5) It's a good thing to dream because dreams do come true.

4) On the other hand, live in reality because it is what it is.

3) Don't beat your spouse, hit your kid or kick your dog –or marry anyone who has.

2) Look for that pearl, even if you don't like oysters.

1) Keep your powder dry, your nose to the wind and your eyes along the skyline – in other words, if you don't take care of yourself, you won't be around long to take care of anyone else.