The power of intention

The Power of Intention

When the new year rolls around, do you find yourself under the scrutiny of “New Year’s Resolutions,” making a list of areas in which you need to change only to find that by Valentine’s Day your list has fallen by the wayside? You’re not alone! Many of us lean into the idea of New Year’s Resolutions, as they are great in theory; however they can also cause stress when we “fail” to achieve them.

This year, I am setting the tone for intention as opposed to resolution. In yoga, setting intention is called sankalpa, which is the Sanskrit word for “resolve.” Intention allows you to redefine what it means to set goals by removing the attachment to the outcome.

Resolutions are concrete goals, or a firm decision to do something. Intention, on the other hand, is a guided principle that you want to live by, or a manifestation of something you want to bring into your life. We can take our resolutions and shift them to be more amenable and kinder towards ourselves.

To differentiate intention versus resolution, you can focus on a feeling or a less specific goal such as I want to feel more gratitude in my day. Then, think of one manageable way you can achieve that goal and seamlessly incorporate into your day. While brushing your teeth at night, for instance, think of two things you are grateful for from your day. By adding a minute of gratitude to an already existing habit, you can slowly begin to incorporate your intentions without even realizing it.

Another way to set intention is to think of a desired outcome and call upon small steps. or changes, that you can do to shift your current state of mind. Instead of a resolution of “I have to lose 30lbs this year,” you can instead say “I am making decisions that are better for my body.” Then, think of small changes you can incorporate in your day or your week that are realistic for you. These can be big changes such as going to the gym three days a week, or smaller shifts such as taking a long walk on Sunday afternoons.

When we incorporate intention, think of slow shifts that you can make that are easily attainable and actionable for only you and your needs and your lifestyle. Remember, it’s about your journey to your higher self and not a final destination!