The new year often brings around feelings of hope! After all, it’s a fresh start, and often people use this time to make resolutions. But what if you don’t want to make resolutions? Is there an alternative?

There is! You can make some intentions!

What is an intention? How do they differ from resolutions?

An intention is defined as a thing intended; an aim or plan. 

A resolution is defined as a firm decision to do or not to do something.

They seem pretty similar, but in reality, they’re quite different. 

Resolutions have become an all or nothing goal. Resolutions imply that you have a problem and need a solution. Often they are things like:

• I’m going to quit smoking.
• I’m going to lose weight.
• I’m going to eat healthier.
• I’m going to work out more.
• I’m going to drink less.

And, while goals are good, resolutions often end in failure. Most often, because you didn’t set them up properly in the first place. You have no idea how you’re going to achieve them, and you don’t know the steps you need to follow.

On the other hand, intentions seem to be a “gentler” form of setting goals. Intentions are all about the journey to achieve your goal. They tend to focus more on your internal emotions as you work to make lasting changes in your life. For example, in the new year, your intention may be, “I’m going to fuel my body the way it deserves.” Yes, you’re probably going to eat more healthy, but the focus is on giving your body what it deserves – which means treating it right.

So, are you ready to set some intentions for 2021?

How to set intentions

Maybe in the past, you’ve made resolutions, but you weren’t so successful. Maybe that all or nothing attitude got to you, and you just gave up? So, this year make a change. Set some intentions.

There are a few things to think about when setting intentions:

• Know your why – This may require some real thought to figure out, but take the time to know why you intend to do something. Will it make your life better? Will it make you happier at work? 
• Put it in writing – It’s helpful to write down your intentions. There is power in putting it in writing, and it makes it very easy to refer to throughout the year.
• Say goodbye to your doubts – It’s time to believe in yourself. Put aside your negative thoughts and any doubts you may have about what you are capable of achieving.
• Take a look at the process and focus on how you want to feel – Intentions are said to be about the journey, so let the process guide you. Pay close attention to how you feel and adjust as necessary. 
• Keep it small – 2020 was a hard year for a lot of people, and perhaps it was for you. So trying to set big intentions may not be the way to go. And that’s okay. Set small intentions that make you feel positive and validated. 
• Change your intentions if needed – If things in your life change, you may need to change your intentions – and that’s okay. Don’t get stuck on one intention if it’s not making you feel good about yourself or it’s not working for you at the moment.

This year, don’t make resolutions – set intentions. You may find that intentions are a much more positive way for you to experience personal growth in your life – and achieve your dreams.