The New Year’s resolution. It’s that time of the year again - the time when people resolve to improve their life in some way in the coming year. A worldwide and long tradition, most of us have made at least one resolution.
A simple internet search highlights some of the most googled choices:
reduce stress
lose weight
make kale chips
join a gym and exercise 5 times per week
how to write a resignation letter
crochet a beanie
Most resolutions include either avoiding something or starting something new. Regardless of what direction we choose, a traditional resolution almost always involves identifying something we don’t like and creating a specific and firm goal to change it. For example:
My lifestyle is unhealthy: Stop smoking
or
I am not eating in a healthy way: Eat more kale
It’s no wonder that almost 90% of New Year’s resolutions fail. They are driven by negative thoughts and they are articulated as boxes that need to be checked. And once we misstep, which is inevitable, it can feel nearly impossible to get back on track. The resolution is abandoned.
Instead, consider setting an intention. Intentions are objectives that align with our values. That is, intentions help us chart a course for how we’d like to live. They are flexible and adaptable. Most importantly, intentions help us commit to long term personal growth. And so we can stray off course one day without feeling defeated.
Here are examples of two intentions I have set - including an example of just one action to reflect the intention.
Be grateful (let someone know they have had a positive impact on my life)
Strive for balance (close my email after 7 pm)
What intentions might you set?