Resolutions Are So Last Year

Setting Intentions Versus Resolutions in the New Year

As the numbers change on the calendar to a new year, many create a list of resolutions to achieve in the coming months. But, is that the best way to achieve your goals? Ask yourself, did you achieve your resolutions from years past? If not, did you feel guilty or even shameful about not meeting them? If you don’t accomplish these expectations you have set for yourself, how does that make you feel?

Resolutions may create more stress and ultimately set you up for failure.

A friend and life coach suggested to come up with a list of intentions for 2020 then come up with actions steps in which to achieve them. The list consists of things to let go of and things to bring in.

But, first, what’s the difference?

Resolution

1. A fixed decision to do or not to do something.

2. The action of solving a problem, dispute, or contentious matter.

Intention

1. Something intended; an aim or plan.

2. The action or fact of intending.

Is an intention strong enough to create change? Intentions allow one to use creativity, awareness, and be mindful of what he or she would like to change. Resolutions request that we be perfect, something one can never achieve. Resolutions tend to focus only on the outcome, not the journey. Intentions allow us to look deep within ourselves, to be ok with being an imperfect human being. Intentions ask only that you do your best to work through your action-steps. Intentions do not hold you to an exact result. Instead, guide you on a course of ambitions.

Some ideas for intentions

Setting your intentions may take some time. I started making my list before the new year and it has grown day by day. It’s helpful to write them in a journal with action-steps you plan to take to achieve them. You may even find a need to have an intention to revisit and review your intentions throughout the year.

Share them with someone who will help you keep on track. The objective is to set the intention, take action to get things progressing that are consistent with the goal. Then, allow it all to come together in its own way and time.

Here’s to healthy and prosperous 2020!