2020 is here and the closer last year came to a close, the words like change, intention, resolution and new beginnings were being talked about. Does the idea of making ‘resolutions’ stress you out? Maybe it’s because most of our resolutions don’t stick!
If the majority of resolutions are broken, then the irony is that the meaning of “resolution” is a firm decision to do or not to do something; the action of solving a problem, dispute, or contentious matter; the quality of being determined or resolute.
If we go into a new year purposeful, determined, and unwavering, why are we breaking our resolutions? Do you know that most people are more likely to follow through with something in the new year if they set ‘intentions’? Aren’t they the same thing?
An intention is an idea that you plan (or intend) to carry out. If you mean to do something, it’s an intention. Your goal, purpose, or aim is your intention. It’s something you mean to do, whether you pull it off or not.
‘Planning to carry out an idea’ and ‘solving a contentious matter resolutely’ really do sound like two very different things, don’t they? I may be setting a lot of intentions for 2020, however, I may not be resolute about them. It is very possible to start the year determined to meet your intentions and then start wavering as the year progresses. We all know that we can start the year out with the greatest intentions and have grandiose resolutions, but simply cannot pull them all off.
I am will be less ridged in the New Year and won’t solve a problem with resolutions. There is no room for discouragement or failure in 2020! This year, will you join me in setting intentions?
Not only should you set intentions for the year, but try setting monthly intentions. Maybe even set daily intentions! Allow yourself some grace for those goals you can’t quite pull off in the time-frame you anticipate completing them in. Start the day by setting goals and be proud of your accomplishments at the end of every day. Try making a vision board, an intention tree, journal your thoughts, goals, and dreams. If you visualize intentions, then you will be more likely to follow through with them.
Here is to living with purpose in 2020. Happy New Year!
“You can go slow. Allow your dreams and goals to change, but live an intentional life.”
-Kumail Nanjiani
Christine