Setting Intentions vs. Resolutions: A Mindful Approach to the New Year
As January arrives, many of us feel the pressure to set New Year’s resolutions, but have you considered setting intentions instead? While resolutions are goal-focused and often lead to stress, intentions offer a more flexible, compassionate way to approach personal growth.
Resolutions vs. Intentions
Resolutions are specific, measurable goals (e.g., "read 50 books", “exercise 5x/week”), often creating pressure to succeed or fail.
Intentions are broader, mindset-based principles that guide your actions (e.g., "embrace self-compassion", “move my body”), focusing on the journey rather than the outcome.
Why Intentions Work Better
They’re Flexible: Intentions allow room for mistakes and growth, reducing the risk of feeling like a failure.
Focus on the Process: Unlike resolutions, which are result-oriented, intentions are about creating positive habits and mindsets.
Promote Self-Compassion: Intentions encourage patience and kindness, which helps you bounce back from setbacks.
Align with Values: Intentions are grounded in what truly matters to you, making them more motivating.
How to Set Intentions for the New Year
Reflect: Think about last year—what worked, what didn’t, and where you want to grow.
Choose Focus Areas: Pick 1-2 areas you want to nurture (e.g., health, relationships, mindfulness).
Phrase Positively: Frame intentions in an uplifting way. For example: “I intend to practice self-compassion daily.”
Take Action: Break your intention into small, meaningful steps—like daily meditation or journaling.
Be Gentle: Don’t expect perfection. Return to your intention with kindness when things slip.
Example Intentions
“I will cultivate more gratitude in my daily life.”
“I intend to nurture deeper connections with loved ones.”
“I will practice self-care, especially during stressful moments.”
Conclusion
This year, choose intentions over resolutions for a more fulfilling, flexible, and compassionate approach to growth. By focusing on how you want to feel and what you want to embrace, you can create a mindful, sustainable path toward positive change.
Happy New Year—and here’s to setting meaningful intentions!