As 2025 approaches, many of us are starting to think about goals, dreams and resolutions! It’s the same drill every year. We set ambitious resolutions, yet studies show us that nearly 80% of New Year’s resolutions are abandoned by February (I’ve been there so many times myself). Why does this happen and how can we actually set ourselves up for success? This year, let me share something that’s worked for me this past year. Let’s lean in on the power of intentions rather than resolutions.
Intentions Vs. Resolutions?
Resolutions are often goal-oriented and focused on “getting something right”, whether that’s losing weight, saving more money or finding a new job. These are all great goals to have any time in the year and don’t necessarily need to start on January 1st. Intentions on the other hand, focus on our inner values. It can begin with asking, “How do I want to feel this year?” or “What energy do I want to bring into my life?” Intentions are flexible and personal, making room for growth throughout the year. For example, if your intention is to feel more connected, you might spend time reconnecting with friends or exploring new communities. You can pursue this feeling in different ways even if circumstances change.
Why Intentions Are The Real Deal In 2025
As we step into 2025, many of us are re-evaluating our lives, relationships and careers. Intentions align beautifully with this process because they aren’t about sticking to specific goals but about nurturing our inner growth. By setting intentions, we create space for self-regulation and self-compassion; two essential elements for building our emotional fitness.
A Guide To Getting Started
Ready to make a shift from resolutions to intentions? Here’s a simple guide that will set you up for success!
- Reflect on your values: What do you care about most? Is it connection, growth, or maybe adventure? Start with a core value that resonates with you.
- Identify how you want to feel: Instead of setting an outcome-based goal, think about the feelings you want to nurture. Do you want more peace, confidence, or curiosity? Use these as guideposts for your intentions.
- Revisit your intentions regularly: Unlike resolutions that tend to fade away, intentions thrive when nurtured. Make a habit of reflecting on your intentions each month, noting any shifts or progress and make changes along the way.
As we gear up for 2025, choosing intentions over resolutions can open us up to a more fulfilling journey. Intentions allow us to be gentle with ourselves, embrace change and create meaning in the everyday moments. So, this year, let’s leave new year resolutions in the past and step into 2025 with purposeful, heartfelt intentions. After all, true transformation begins not with the pressure to change, but with the desire to grow.