Forget Resolutions, We're Creating Intentions This Year

Ever heard the phrase “new year, new me”? Every January 1st we make a list of the things we want to change in the year ahead. But how many of those goals actually get accomplished?  

The reality is that we never actually set goals or a way to accomplish everything on our list; we make a to-do list of big changes or as we call them “resolutions” that never get checked off because the items on the list are not a one and done. It becomes an all or nothing task, that often turns into the latter.  

Instead of resolutions, we can set intentions for the upcoming year. Intentions focus on how we want to show up instead of the outcome, that sometimes we can’t even control. Truthfully, we can only control our actions; the results are out of our hands most of the time.  

To clarify the difference, a resolution might be something like losing 20 pounds or stopping procrastination. An intention is more mindful. It might sound like “I want to build better habits that support my health.” The intention is gentler, something smaller that can be worked on every day, and something we can leave as a reminder to work towards our bigger goals.   

Intentions are often better for your mental health. They emphasize self-care, small wins, and steady progress, with less pressure and more flexibility along the way. 

To set your intentions for the upcoming year reflect on the previous year and what you might want to change. These should be specific things that focus on wellbeing. For example, you can ask yourself questions like: 

What filled my cup this year? 
What drained my battery this year? 
What are some habits that did not serve me that I might change? 

Next, create a list of intentions for the coming year. These should be simple and doable things that can be implemented daily. For example, someone who wants to focus on healthier habits might say, “I will make choices that support my body and mind, not punish them.” You can even take it a step further by pairing each intention with small actions, such as pausing whenever you feel overwhelmed or drinking a glass of water with each meal.  

Remember, small progress is still progress!  Focus on progress rather than perfection. All we can do is take it one step at a time. We want to create intentions that support us and are sustainable. Be kind to yourself; both mind and body. May this be a year of patience, care, and slow, steady growth.