How to Make New Year's Intentions

Refine intentions as the year passes to achieve your goals.

The arrival of a new year prompts many people to write resolutions, but others choose to stick with less firm intentions. Making, then breaking, New Year's resolutions becomes a frustrating cycle for some participants. Labeling the list as intentions allows the person seeking change more leeway on the time factor associated with resolutions. Intentions are thought of as a first step to the goal rather than an ultimatum to reach it. This New Year, avoid frustration by making a list of intentions you can use year-round to guide your life in a new direction.

Things You'll Need

• Notebook or journal

Instructions

1. Write down the areas where you want to make change. For example, relationships, money and health are categories you might use.

2. Create an affirmation or "I am" statement that addresses each category. Some examples are, "I am in perfect health mind, body and spirit," or "I am confident, organized and capable enough to receive a promotion."

3. Read your intentions aloud every day. This will help you remember to pursue each one.

Tips & Warnings

• Make changes throughout the year to add clarity to your intentions.

References

• Shift Your Life; Heartfelt New Year's Resolutions; Tracy Lutz and Marion Ross, Ph.D.
• A Beautiful Death; Resolutions, Intentions and Dedications; Cheryl Eckl; 2010