Hey lovelies,
Can you believe how quickly 2024 flew by? It feels like it was just yesterday we were celebrating Christmas! As we step into 2025, I find myself reflecting on what my New Year's intentions should be. Yep, you heard me right—intentions, not resolutions.
Why Intentions and Not Resolutions?
Look, I've set New Year's resolutions in the past, but let's be honest: did I ever stick to them? Maybe only for a few weeks before falling off the bandwagon. For me, resolutions have always felt a little too rigid, requiring me to be really disciplined in order to meet the goals. And when I don't meet them, I feel like a total failure, which leads to a bunch of negative emotions—feelings of guilt and shame.
So this year, I decided to try something different. Instead of traditional resolutions, I'm going to set intentions—how I want to live and behave in the coming year. A year that focuses on my personal growth and living more intentionally while staying true to myself. For me, the word "intention" feels kinder, gentler, and more forgiving. Even if I don't meet my intentions daily, I don't think I'll feel as guilty or crappy because I can always try to do better.
After all, didn't they say that each morning is a golden opportunity to begin again? And I guess that's precisely why intentions are so powerful. Unlike rigid resolutions that set us up for potential failure, intentions are about how we want to feel and live throughout the year. They allow for flexibility and self-compassion, creating a nurturing space for personal growth. Intentions empower us to embrace our journey, celebrating progress over perfection.
If you're unsure how to start setting your intentions for the year ahead, here are some creative ways to do just that.
Creative Ways to Set Your Intentions
1. Choose a Word for the Year
Pick a word that encapsulates what you want to focus on—like "growth," "joy," or "confidence." This can help to guide your actions and mindset throughout the year.
2. Create a Vision Board
Gather images and words that inspire you. This visual representation can serve as a motivating reminder of what you want to manifest in your life. Instead of a physical vision board, you can always use Pinterest to create a digital version.
3. Write It Down
Journaling is a powerful way to clarify your intentions. Write down what you hope to achieve this year and the feelings you want to cultivate. This practice solidifies your commitment to living intentionally.
4. Make a Playlist
Curate a playlist that embodies your intentions for the year. Music has an incredible ability to evoke emotions and set the tone for your journey. Listen to it regularly as a way to stay connected to your goals.
5. Establish an Intention Ritual
Create a ritual that resonates with you—whether it's lighting a candle, meditating, or taking a walk in nature while reflecting on your intentions. These moments can be powerful ways to connect with your desires.
Putting Intentions into Practice: My 2025 Journey
Now that we've explored some ways to set intentions, I want to share how I'm applying these ideas to my own life. To hold myself accountable (and hopefully inspire you too!), here are my personal intentions for 2025. My guiding word for 2025 is "Self-Compassion." While I'm improving, sometimes my ego mind still takes over, or I find myself giving too much to others until I'm left feeling depleted and unwell. Sound familiar?
So, as part of being kind-er to myself, my intentions for 2025 are:
- Nourish my body and get moving more: Because I deserve to feel energised and strong!
- Set healthier boundaries: It's time to prioritise my needs without feeling guilty.
- Journal daily: To stay connected with my intentions and process my thoughts.
- Learn to accept compliments and help from others: This has always been a tough one for me, but I'm ready to embrace it as part of my self-care journey.
By focusing on these intentions, I'm hoping to nurture my personal growth. And by sharing them with you, I'm not only holding myself accountable but also hoping to inspire you to set your own meaningful intentions.
Now It's Your Turn!
What do you want to focus on this year? Remember, it's not about perfection; it's about progress and self-love. Let's make this year about living more intentionally and loving ourselves more fiercely.
Here's to a year filled with 💜, growth, and unapologetic self-acceptance!
Laurel, xoxo
