For the past 15 years I have been setting intentions at the beginning of the year rather than making resolutions. To me, there is a big distinction between a resolution and an intention. With a resolution I feel a lot of pressure, either I do it perfectly or I fail. How many times have you made a resolution only to have “failed” within the first two weeks and given up? With an intention I have more room to move through the process. I keep my intentions in sight and know that it will be a journey.
For example, if I have a resolution to lose 15 pounds I find myself resisting and also focusing on every little thing that I put in my mouth. I am constantly judging myself and often falling short. When I set the intention to lose 15 pounds I am coming at it from a space of choice. I choose what I eat with more clarity and sometimes I even choose to eat a piece of really dark chocolate, without the guilt associated with it of “cheating.” I still have the intention and focus of losing 15 pounds, but without the associated guilt, resistance and struggle. It shifts from a “should” to a choice.
The other piece of an intention is that it allows for your process. You set the intention and then do the steps, sometimes taking a path that you hadn’t seen before and being OK with that direction. The process of intention invites you to revisit it during the year to re-set your focus and touch base with your progress.
I spend time at the beginning of the year reflecting on what I would like in many areas of my life; family, business, fun, travel, health, spirit, etc. Some years I create a vision board with pictures and words representing my intentions and visions. Some years I journal about my intentions. There is no right or wrong way to set your intentions.
What are your dreams and visions for 2012? What intentions would you like to set to achieve those dreams? Have fun with this process and I hope you enjoy your journey in 2012!
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