As the calendar turns to a new year, we often find ourselves reflecting on the past & looking forward to the future. Cue the setting of New Years (NY) Resolutions (and cue the eyeroll). In recent years, I have found the practice of setting intentions a powerful distinction that makes much more of an impact in my life.
NY resolutions are typically concrete goals we set for ourselves, such as losing weight, quitting smoking, or saving money, often coming with a sense of pressure & obligation, based on a lot of SHOULDING.This mindset can lead to feelings of guilt or inadequacy when we fall short. Have you ever set a resolution that has not felt like a chore?
And where are you usually at with your commitment come February? (Mid January for me ;))!
NY intentions offer a gentler, more compassionate path. They are not about achieving specific outcomes but about guiding principles that shape our actions & attitudes. Rooted in the present moment, reflecting our deepest values & desires, intentions are flexible & forgiving, allowing for growth & adaptation, whilst focussing on the journey rather than the destination, allowing for celebrating progress & effort. (I am already feeling calmer).
Intentions are inherently more purposeful than resolutions for several reasons:
- Alignment with Core Values: Intentions are deeply personal & align with our core values. They stem from a place of self-awareness & authenticity, making them more meaningful & sustainable.
- Embracing the Journey: Intentions invite us to be present & mindful, embracing the process of growth rather than fixating on specific outcomes. This perspective reduces stress & allows for a more fulfilling experience.
- Flexibility & Compassion: Unlike rigid resolutions, intentions are adaptable. They acknowledge that life is unpredictable & that it’s okay to adjust our path as we go. This flexibility fosters self-compassion & resilience.
- Internal Motivation: Intentions are driven by internal motivation rather than external expectations. This intrinsic drive makes it easier to stay committed, as our actions are fueled by genuine desire rather than obligation.
To transition from resolutions to intentions, start by reflecting on what truly matters to you. Ask yourself “How do I want to feel?” or “What kind of person do I want to be?” This shift in focus can illuminate your true desires & values.
Write down your intentions & revisit them regularly. Allow them to evolve as you grow & change. Celebrate your efforts & progress, no matter how small, & be kind to yourself if you stumble.
As we step into the new year, let us embrace the power of intentions. By setting heartfelt, compassionate intentions, we can create a life filled with purpose & joy. Let go of the pressure to achieve & instead, focus on the beauty of becoming. After all, the most meaningful transformations come not from what we do, but from who we choose to be.
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