Setting Intentions vs. Resolutions

Another new year, and another set of resolutions? Ok let’s scrap that.

We all know that research shows new year resolutions are hard to keep, the pressure, the fact that life gets in the way. What’s better than resolutions is setting intentions, something more sustainable and that comes from a place of self-care.

// What’s the difference between intentions and resolutions?

Resolutions come loaded with a sense of obligation with set outcomes such as quitting smoking of taking up a gym routine, while intentions come more from a feeling, such as feeling healthier or being more present. Resolutions tend to feel very rigid, and when we don’t complete them, can trigger a sense of failure. Intentions on the other hand, have a sense of flexibility which gives us more freedom to navigate the natural changes of life. Intentions allow us to focus on the journey, not the outcome.

// Why set intentions?

Setting intentions can help us tune in to both who we are and what we need from life. It helps connect to our values which are of course aligned with our life goals. Having clear intentions gives us a pathway, not a set goal. There are many ways to achieve our goals and being able to be dynamic is key to navigating life’s inevitable changes. There is nothing in life we can rely on more than change, so intentions allow us to be more able to cope with that on the way to a specific goal.

// How to set and keep your intentions

Ask yourself what’s important to you, maybe it’s health, relationships or your career. Put your intentions into positive language and write them down as if it’s in the present moment such as “I feed and nurture my body with healthy food to help me feel more energetic”. This way, you manifest it in your words, and feel it in your body as if it’s happening now.

Writing it down daily will help you remember the ‘why’ of your intentions, without which, it’s very hard to stay consistent. Undertake small steps towards those intentions, maybe something as simple as not buying chocolate in the house any more if your goal is to reduce your junk food consumption.

Also be ready to find alternatives if one method doesn’t work. We are all different and some people thrive better from one thing than another.

Always give yourself credit even for the small steps. Maybe you had two days without smoking when you’d been an addict for years. You can be prepared to fall off the horse, and be prepared to get back on. You are only human and every step forward should be celebrated