I’m guilty of it—you may be, too: making New Year’s resolutions and letting them slip through my fingers by the end of the first month. I mean, seriously, how unrealistic is working out every week for 52 straight weeks? If you’re one of those people, I applaud you. Myself, however? I need a break after walking up one set of stairs.
That’s why this year, I’m instead reworking my resolutions into intentions.
What’s the difference?
Nothing, really. It just sounds less intimidating. Plus, instead of one big resolution, I’m shifting into several, smaller intentions.
In order to navigate multiple of these intentions, I’m ensuring they’re small, reasonable, and general enough (yet not too vague) to not obsess over them so specifically. So, things like “workout more” aren’t going to cut it for me this year.
Here are mine:
#1: Only get things I really need.
I went through my belongings this past fall and severely Marie Kondo’d everything. If you’re unfamiliar with her, or her technique, she is all about surrounding yourself only with things that bring you joy. So, I did exactly that—and I got rid of about 70% of my belongings. Now, the goal is to keep it that way. I’m guilty of piling items into my space without thinking about how long-term my relationship with it will be. Clothes, beauty products, decorations, books… whatever it is, my intention for 2021 is to keep it simple, and only adopt pieces into my home that will last a long time and keep me happy.
#2: Do more things that scare me.
Growing up, my dad used to tell me, “Do one thing every day that scares you.” Which, I only recently found out is an idea attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt… so, dad, the jig is up. I did go through life with this always in mind, and after a terribly introverted 2020, I am determined to get back into facing my fears this year.
#3: Swap out my usual snacks for healthy ones.
I’ve been dabbling in this for a little bit now, but I’m going into this year more determined than ever. Everybody is different, of course, but mine has been screaming for less junk food… and it thanks me when I make the difference. Who knew healthy and delicious snacks existed? Carrots and hummus? Apples and peanut butter? Yogurt and granola? I’ll have one of each, please!
Everyone’s goals vary based on priorities for them. Where do your priorities lie? And what are your intentions for 2021?