Getting off on the right foot in a new year is just as much of a mindset as pledging to hit the gym every day. In other words, keeping positive attitudes about the upcoming months can do wonders. That's what columnist David Bach is conveying with his Five Principles for Happiness in 2007.

It's all about starting fresh in order to focus the new year, and he begins by telling us to give ourselves a break. He has a very good point: if we keep living in the past about what we could have done or should have earned, then we can't move forward! No regrets, as the mantra goes.

Another principle for happiness according to Mr. Bach is being honest with yourself. Try answering questions like "What would you do with your life today if you weren't afraid of failure?" Yeah, they're personal, but many individuals (including myself) can vouch for the mental clarity that comes from finding out what is really working in his or her life.

These are only two of his principles for happiness, so if it sounds like some kind of zen meditation then I think you will be pleasantly surprised after reading the rest. After all, it's a brand new year so why not try something new?