Despite the cynical age in which we live, it's hard not to feel a surge of hope and optimism each time we turn the calendar page and start another year. These feelings are exemplified in the annual tradition of New Year's resolutions. Sure, we sometimes (OK, usually) fall short of our lofty aims within a few months (OK, weeks), but the very idea of setting goals in order to better oneself speaks to the resiliency and confidence that, despite all our faults, make humans such a formidable force.

Within the benefits world, this mindset is on display every day. Need evidence? Check out this month's "Action Reaction," where some leading benefits professionals lay out their hopes and plans for 2018. Maybe you'll find something to add to your own list. Here are excerpts from a few of my favorite resolutions:

"Continue to debunk the myth that health care costs cannot be controlled by showing current and future clients how this can be done." —Brandon Scarborough