[Editor’s Note: This was originally published at Chris Saad’s personal blog as his new years resolutions, but the points he brings up for himself can be brought to bear on those of us who live in the tech and social media fishbowl, if we’re looking to be more effective at what we aim to do. –mrh]

Be even more true to myself and others

There are too many times when there are people in our ecosystem, and in our world, who bully or bluster their way through things. This is corrosive to us all and blocks innovation and real discourse. I plan to be true to myself and others when dealing with these kinds of people.

We need to remember that those who have a voice are not necessarily right. And those who are right are not necessarily being heard.

Forget the numbers – Make a connection

All too often our community turns into a game of numbers and influence instead of real friendships. Sure having an audience is important for some of the things we do, but I’d rather have a group of 5 real friends, than 5000 ‘friends’ on Facebook.

This will include less parties and more private dinners or gatherings with people I love and respect.

Remember to pay attention

All too often we are too busy looking up to others, trying to get on the next big level, and we forget that there are really valuable people and projects right here next to us. I want to meet more people who have less voice, but have equal (or better) ideas, projects or companies.

I want to help those people succeed.

Maintain optimism

I don’t want to become jaded or complacent about where I live and the opportunities I have. I’ve lived in Silicon Valley going on a year now (and all the time I spent there before that) – it could be easy to forget just how lucky I am.

I will continue to try my best to avoid that this year.