It’s a brand new year, the beginning of a new decade, and a time for resolutions. So I’ll say goodbye to 2009 and hello to 2010.

Ten years ago, my New Year’s resolution was to curb my spending. Five years later, it was a promise to shed some weight. Last year, it was a plea for people to be good to each other.

This year, there won’t be any resolutions. Not because I wouldn’t keep them, but because over eating, spending money, and treating myself to things I can’t afford is getting more difficult in today’s economy.

I know, life is rough. But so is swearing off things like creamy chocolates and thick juicy burgers when you almost always have a craving.

Hey, I’m not the only one. Even people with money are being a bit thriftier by passing on the notion of spending their cash and acting more like the Grinch who stole Christmas. It’s like watching Scrooge on television all over again.

But can you blame them? 2008 was the most horrible Christmas most people ever had and 2009 wasn’t much better. I guess the record job losses and the threat of losing one’s homes made people reconsider their holiday spending. It was a Christmas you had to survive.

When I was younger, the economy made little or no difference. I solved that problem by spending only what was in my wallet - gifts for the wife and kids and that was it.

So while others welcome 2010 with promises to lost weight, save money, or to get a better paying job, I’ll stick to my idea of resolving not to resolve anything.

In fact, I’ve got no plans to lose weight, to look for a new job, or to quit anything whatsoever. I’m the same weight, I’ve got plenty of work, and there’s nothing to let go of that’s taking up my time anyways.

So I’m starting 2010 basically the same as in 2009.

Even so, 2009 wasn’t so bad.

My eldest daughter got married, my younger daughter graduated from college and my wife and I spent a relatively quiet, successful year. I met all of my deadlines and I managed to get most of my work done without any fanfare. All in all, an enjoyable and productive year.

There are, however, a few additions to my 2008 resolutions list that I’d like to make. I won’t let unimportant things bother me; I won’t assume all the responsibilities at work; I won’t let other people’s problems become distractions; I won’t pretend that I’m a writer when I have yet to get a book published; and lastly, I resolve to put more effort into my work, even if it means staying up late at night, which I’m going to do anyways.

Perhaps the financial troubles people had in 2009 made them more grateful. I hope that in 2010, whether our fortunes improve or not, that people will continue to be humble and appreciative.

Maybe the spirit of the recession will help people understand that sometimes “less is more.”

After all, 2010 could be a blessing if we have the right attitude, and we should greet the New Year as a beginning and a new opportunity.

Like my mom used to say, “You never know what’s on the other side of the door until you open it.”