Setting Intentions vs Resolutions
“When you set an intention, the entire universe conspires to make it happen” —Deepak Chopra
SETTING INTENTIONS VS RESOLUTIONS: FINDING YOUR TRUE NORTH
As the new year begins, many of us feel the urge to hit the restart button, setting goals to better ourselves or change our lives. Traditionally, this takes the form of New Year’s resolutions. These specific, often rigid declarations sound like “I will lose 10 pounds” or “I’ll quit procrastinating.” While resolutions can offer a sense of direction, they often come with an all-or-nothing mindset, leaving little room for flexibility or self-compassion.
What if, instead of making resolutions, we approach the new year by setting intentions? Unlike resolutions, which focus on a fixed outcome, intentions invite us to connect with our values and align our actions with what truly matters to us. Intentions act as a compass, helping us find our true north as we navigate the year ahead.
Resolutions: Goals With Strings Attached
Resolutions are usually very specific and tied to a sense of achievement. On the surface this might seem empowering; however, resolutions often also come with an underlying pressure to succeed, reinforcing a belief that our worth is tied to our ability to check items off a list.
This pressure can backfire. When life inevitably throws us off course, we may feel discouraged, even self-critical, for not meeting our own expectations. For instance, if your resolution is to exercise every day and you skip a workout, it’s easy to fall into a pattern of guilt or give up altogether.
Resolutions can also be disconnected from the why behind them. Without a deeper connection to our values, resolutions can feel like arbitrary obligations rather than meaningful pursuits.
Intentions: A Mindful Alternative
Intentions, on the other hand, are rooted in mindfulness and self-awareness. Setting an intention begins with asking yourself:
What truly matters to me?
How do I want to feel this year?
What kind of person do I want to be?
Intentions focus on the journey, not just the destination. Instead of resolving to lose 10 pounds, you might set an intention to nourish your body with movement and healthy food. This subtle shift fosters a sense of curiosity and openness, leaving space for growth and adaptation.
Then when life doesn’t go as planned, intentions can help to remind us that perfection isn’t the goal. Intentions encourage us to return to the present moment and realign with our values, rather than judging ourselves for falling short.
Finding Your True North
To set meaningful intentions for the year ahead, take time to reflect on what feels authentic and inspiring to you. You might:
Journal: Write about your hopes, dreams, and the feelings you want to cultivate.
Create a Vision Board: Use images and words that represent your intentions.
Choose a Word or Phrase: Use a guiding word like “balance,” “growth,” or “connection” to give yourself direction.
Setting intentions is about planting seeds of possibility, trusting that with care and attention, they will grow in their own time. Instead of striving for perfection, you’re creating a life that feels aligned with your true self.
This January, consider leaving resolutions behind. By setting intentions, you can embark on a mindful, compassionate journey toward your true north.
Want to set new intentions for 2025 and bring them to life by creating your own collage or vision board? You can check out my Pieces of You collage classes this winter! Click here for more info: https://www.firepotexat.com/workshops
