The Problem with Resolutions
Every January, millions of people set New Year’s resolutions such as “I am going to go to the gym 5x/week” or “I will only eat healthy foods, no sugar”. But, by February, those resolutions typically fall off and are forgotten. The reason for this is not for a lack of trying or for lack of motivation but is due to the resolution itself. These resolutions are often too rigid and outcome- based leaving us feeling defeated if we miss a workout or eat that piece of candy. This year, let’s trade those rigid resolutions for something more powerful, intention-based resolutions.
The Power of Intentions
So what are intentions? An intention is simply a guiding principle or mindset rather than a checklist. So instead of setting the resolution “I am going to attend the gym 5x/week” you would set an intention of “I want to take care of my body through consistent movement”. Intentions are designed to stay with us throughout our lives, they aren’t fleeting goals with expectations or set outcomes. Intentions are sustainable and speak more to our deeper purpose, providing flexibility.
Living with Purpose, Not Pressure
When you set intentions rather than resolutions, you free yourself of the pressure to be perfect. Instead of chasing numbers on the scale or timing your activity in the gym, you begin to shift to chasing meaning and purpose. Instead of saying “I have to run at least one mile every day”, you could say “I want to find joy through movement each day”. Intentions allow for life to happen. They allow for rest days, holidays, and time spent with family. They aren’t rigid and strict but still allow for progress to happen.
Practical Ways to Set Intentions
Shifting our mindset from setting resolutions to intentions can sometimes be difficult, here are some ways you can start finding your own intentions for the new year. Start with reflection. What do you want to feel this year? Maybe it’s that you want to feel something you haven’t felt in the past like feeling strong or peaceful. Or maybe it's continuing to feel a way that has brought joy to your life.
Next, think about connection. What does connection mean to you? Maybe you are focusing on wellness and want to be more connected with your body. Maybe you are craving companionship and want to focus on community. No matter what goals you have, think of simple daily ways to strive towards these goals. Be sure to acknowledge that intentions can shift as life goes on.
Community and Accountability
Most everything in life is easier when it is a shared experience. Share your intentions with your friends, family, or even running group. This helps create accountability but in a way that is free of pressure. Intentions foster a sense of encouragement and motivation over comparison. Intentions invite connection.
An Intentional New Year
This new year, don’t resolve to be someone different. Intend to influence your mindset. The new year is a perfect opportunity to refresh your purpose and define what movement means to you. At the end of the day, it is not about the resolution you keep, but about the intention that keeps you moving towards your goals and aspirations.
