It’s nearly the New Year. What will it take to be a new you? If you have tried setting new goals every January only to find yourself floundering by February, then perhaps it is time for a new approach. After all, it’s insane to keep doing the same thing while expecting a different outcome. This new year, take a stab at something new. Try setting your intentions rather than making New Year’s resolutions.
What’s the difference? Resolutions or goals are concrete statements with time-bound and measurable results. They often focus on changing behaviors. I will lose 20 pounds by May, I will find a new job in a month, or I will save $5,000 this year are examples of goals.
Intentions, on the other hand, are primarily about your mindset. Intentions get to the core of what you really want, believe, and value. Intentions deal with principles rather than behaviors guiding you to live life as you truly desire. When honored, your intentions shift your focus from absolute achievement of short term goals to total manifestation of a new you.
There’s a familiar saying that beliefs determine actions and actions determine outcomes. This is the essence of intentional living. By setting intentions, rather than goals, you ignite a transformation journey. It’s one that takes you across the spectrum of being, doing, and having. A greater emphasis is on being because this is the first gateway to the manifestation of your dreams and desires. The outcomes become possible and attainable because you are personally developing and growing into your best, most empowered self.
Setting goals is good practice. But let’s be real. Many people fail miserably at achieving them. I know I have missed the mark on quite a few goals. Chances are you have too. So rather than doing the same old thing this year, that is setting more goals, why not try setting your intentions?
To help you get started, here are a few ideas to inspire your list of intentions for 2022.
I INTEND to take care of myself first – giving yourself permission to value self-love and self care washes away those guilty feelings that come with putting yourself before others or saying no to things that don’t align with your priorities.
I INTEND to let go of anger and hurt – holding on to negative emotions can drain your energy and create wedges in relationships. Instead, try releasing these feelings so you can experience greater joy and fulfillment.
I INTEND to do all the good I can – making a difference in the lives of others starts with good intentions. Each day think of someone you can help and remember when you interact with others, aim to do all the good you can.
I INTEND to laugh a lot – finding the humor in life carries us through those difficult moments and times of adversity.
I INTEND to love freely – releasing yourself to love life, love people, love work, and love all things is the greatest liberation possible. From this place, you have pure joy and passion flowing through all of your interactions and experiences.
I INTEND to spend time outdoors – connecting with nature is a grounding experience. The beauty of the wilderness, the sun, sky, and moons are readily available for your delight. A daily dose of fresh air allows you to clear your head of stressful thoughts and be invigorated.
I INTEND to praise progress – celebrating small wins helps cultivate a strong spirit of gratitude. When progress is your goal, not perfection or end completion, you notice how far you’ve come and gain encouragement to continue on.
Evelyn Summerville is an executive, leadership & life coach. She harnesses the experiences and lessons learned during her time as Director of Marketing Research & Analysis for a Fortune 500 firm to support leaders in fast-tracking their success. In doing so, Evelyn empowers people to live and lead with purpose, passion, and excellence.