It’s another early part of a new year, traditionally a time for setting resolutions and intentions for the next 12 months.
Resolutions, like losing 10 pounds in one month, or going back to the gym daily, or becoming a vegan tomorrow tend not to work beyond the month. In fact, it’s rare that resolutions ever work for very long, because they seem to be more about what we believe others want and approve of rather than what we feel will make us happier in the long run.
Intentions are about personal growth – at least those that stick – because by doing them we feel hopeful for the future. Without feeling hopeful, life isn’t great.
Here are some intentions I’ve set for myself over the years:
– Be a good leader
– Eat and exercise in a way that supports my health
– Make my intimate relationships a priority
– Build my practice
These kinds of intentions are big and can be complicated sometimes because they all require commitment for the entire year. I use then as daily guides. Is what I’m about to do in line with my intentions for this year? If not, why am I even thinking about doing it?
When I try to commit to resolutions, my heart isn’t fully in it. When I commit to my intentions, I’m all in.
Here’s another thing to think about that’s often related to resolutions, and that I believe enhance the likelihood of failure: they are for someone else because we broadcast them to our friends, get praised for them, and then feel we need to accomplish these for them, rather than for us. They cease to be personal.
It’s why AA – Alcoholics Anonymous – is Anonymous: once you tell someone about quitting it becomes their responsibility and not yours.
I encourage you to set intentions or resolutions for yourself this coming year, and wish you all success.
If you want to read more on resolutions and intentions, here’s an earlier blog on a related topic.
Quote of the Week
“His resolve is not to seem, but to be, the best.”
– Aeschylus, The Seven Against Thebes
Keep your goals to yourself
Invitation
I hope you enjoyed this article. When you’re ready to take the next step on your life journey, book a free 20 min consultation with me.