New Year Resolutions, No? Maybe Intentions Instead. . .
I’ve never been a big fan of New Year resolutions, but with the New Year almost here, I figure now is the time for my to share a few thoughts.
I think I’ve never been a big fan of resolutions because, if you want/need to change something, why not do it “now,” regardless of what time of year it is. If people make resolutions that improve their lives or the lives of others, I’m all for it. It just isn’t something that I love.
Below are links to a couple Upworthiest articles on resolutions. To be honest, I’ve only read the one on journaling, because I used to journal a lot (maybe I’ll start up again,) but I did want to share one idea/thought that I recently heard on one of my podcasts (of course,) about resolutions.
The podcast host who is very open and self aware (she also is a recovering alcoholic,) Anyway, she mentioned that years ago she was working with one of her therapists and they essentially asked why she bothers making resolutions. They pointed out that she usually isn’t able to keep them (or not keep them to the standard that she has for herself) and then ends up beating herself up - like most people. Her therapist suggested that rather than making a resolution, that she identify her intention(s) for the year. I really like the idea of intentions (at least for people who are hard on himself if they don’t meet goals, etc.) I think of intentions as being more flexible, while still providing direction in what you do/how you live your life.
So this year, it is intentions for me. I need to think more about this, but I think two intentions that I have in mind for 2019 will to be more aware of privilege - mine and others (or lack there of) and will be to be more kind/helpful, particularly just nice,kind things, even the tiniest kind actions - for example I've been trying to make sure when going out to dinner that I clean up the table, stack the dishes etc for the server, just to make their job a tiny, tiny bit easier.
Happy 2019 everyone!
After reading this blog entry, I decided to go with intentions for 2019 as well. Thanks for influencing me.
ReplyDeleteMy intention is to journal nightly (also influenced by you - I was always impressed that you had a journal...I tried but was terrible at it...trying again). It's becoming one of my favorite parts of the day. My second intention is to limit my wine in-take...Lol! Lord help me!
Thanks for the idea, Putty!