Do you know what a resolution is? It' a kind of promise. Most of the time, we make promises to other people. (“Mom, I promise I'm going to tidy my room when I get back from school.”) However, promises you make to yourself are {#blank#}1{#/blank#}(resolution), and the {#blank#}2{#/blank#} (common) kind is New Year's resolutions. The start of the year is often a time for making resolutions. When we make resolutions at the {#blank#}3{#/blank#} (begin) of the year, we hope that we are going to improve our {#blank#}4{#/blank#} (life). Some people write down {#blank#}5{#/blank#} (they) resolutions and plans for the coming year. This helps them to remember their resolutions. {#blank#}6{#/blank#} (other) tell their family and friends about their wishes and plans.

    There are different kinds of resolutions. Some are about physical health. For example, some people promise themselves they are going  {#blank#}7{#/blank#} (start) an exercise program or eat less fast food. Many resolutions have to do with self-improvement. These are about {#blank#}8{#/blank#} (make) yourself a better person. Some people might say they are going to take up a hobby like painting or taking photos, or {#blank#}9{#/blank#} (learn) to play the guitar. Some resolutions have to do with better planning, like making a weekly plan for schoolwork. For example, a student may have to find more time to study.

    Although there are differences, most resolutions have one thing in common. People hardly ever keep them! There are good reasons for this. Sometimes the resolutions may be too difficult {#blank#}10{#/blank#} (keep). Sometimes people just forget about them. For this reason, some people say the best resolution is to have no resolutions! How about you—will you make any next year?