Resolutions = failure
Intentions= striving towards
All too often we make new year’s resolutions only to see that it’s February (or maybe even earlier) and we’ve already messed up. Discouragement sets in and we’re throwing in the towel since we’ve already failed. Now what?
How about another way of looking at this idea of goal-setting and reflecting on what we want to bring into our lives this new year – the way of Intention.
Intention somehow sounds softer than resolution, gentler, like a leaning in or going towards something. It’s like a compass pointing you in the direction of……whatever it is you aspire to. It feels more internal; it’s coming from deep within you. What do you really want? Listen to that and start to move towards it in small steps.
Setting your intention{s}:
First and foremost is getting in touch with what you want to see for yourself. What do you want more of, less of? What do you want to focus on? What do you want to change? Meditate on it, talk it out, journal, and clear out some of those entangled cob webs so you can hear your own voice.
Go for the small doses of what you want. If you can’t quit your job to follow your dream of becoming an artist, then give yourself some time during the week to engage in your artistic interests.
It’s about bringing into your life the things you value, that which is meaningful to you, what excites you. Move towards that. Go in that direction. We don’t have the time; we make the time.
Prioritize and take action. Kaizen steps are the smallest of steps as you proceed along your path. Small is doable and when you do what you set out to, it feels good; good enough to continue on.
Oh, and remember to revel in those positive feelings of accomplishment, however small it might be. Positive feelings boosts our overall well-being.
And when you slip up, go back and reconnect with what you are attempting. Get back up and continue onward, with that inner compass guiding you in your ‘right’ direction.
Self-compassion – go easy on yourself. We’re all flawed and we can all grow in our abilities and potential. We move towards betterment.
What intentions are you setting?
I’m a social worker and life coach certified in Positive Psychology. My passion is in journeying with you as you carve out your best life possible through the inevitable thick and thin. It’s a rich world out there. Create that for yourself. It’s doable. Click here to learn more. Consider scheduling a free initial consultation at my office in Manhasset (Long Island) or via Skype/phone.
{Illustration by Maurice Sendak}
