Use this five-step formula to create your own foolproof New Years toast:

• Describe the good and bad aspects of the old year, both in a positive light.

• Make a positive statement or statements about the coming new year.

• Make a suggestion for a positive change in the new year--one that everyone can nod "yes" to, even if they don't intend to make the change. Avoid lecturing or preaching.

• Acknowledge and compliment the people present at your toast.

• Raise your glass higher and make one final short, positive statement about the new year.

Now lets see how it works by actually creating a toast you can use:

Describe the good and bad aspects of the old year, both in a positive light:

"Heres to 2005: Lets be thankful for the favorable situations it brought us, especially those we grabbed hold of and thrived on. Heres to the not-so-fortunate things that happened and the valuable lessons we learned from them, even if its only 'Ill never do that again!'"

Make a positive statement or statements about the coming new year:

"Heres to 2006: Lets look forward to it with happy anticipation. In the bright new year, let us pursue success and happiness as always,

Make a suggestion for a positive change in the new year:

and yet let us think a little less about ourselves and a little more about how we can help others. Those opportunities are numerous; let us take at least one of them."

Acknowledge and compliment the people present at your toast:

"And heres to all of you (wave glass around). How privileged we are to know each other. In the new year, let us find out more about each other, enjoy each others talents and gifts, and encourage each other."

Raise your glass higher and make one final short, positive statement about the new year:

"To 2006 (raise glass higher)--the best year ever!"

Following these five steps, you can create a great New Year's toast each and every year. Just try it and see!

Copyright 2005 by Joanna Fuchs