2025 is almost here! I love to see the New Year as a blank canvas with fresh energy brimming with possibility, hope, and the promise of a fresh start. Yet the pressure to craft the perfect New Year’s resolution can feel overwhelming with the unrealistic expectation that we must instantly transform our lives. How often have we set bold resolutions, only to stumble, fall, and abandon them when perfection proves elusive, if not impossible?

How about doing something different this year and taking the pressure off while shifting the narrative? Instead of resolutions, consider setting intentions. Why? Because intentions focus on the journey rather than the destination. They’re more forgiving and flexible, while also being rooted in mindfulness. Resolutions can feel rigid, oftentimes demanding perfection. They’re black and white, while intentions are softer, more like shades of grey. I like to think of intentions as gentle reminders of the direction we want our lives to take, one day at a time.

The Importance of Intention 

Resolutions often zero in on external results such as losing weight, exercising more or saving money. Intentions focus on how you want to feel and who you want to become as you move through life. They’re about the inner shifts that naturally lead to lasting, meaningful change.

For example, instead of resolving to “exercise every day,” an intention might be to “nurture my body with movement that feels joyful and energizing.” Can you feel the difference? One feels like an obligation, something you have to do. The other, an act of self-care and something you get to do!

Take a quiet moment to look back on the past year. What brought you joy and lit you up? What drained your energy? What lessons did you learn? What dreams feel stronger? What did you miss the most? Is there something you wish you’d already done? Reflection isn’t about judgment — it’s about clarity and insight. By identifying what truly matters to you, you can now craft personalized intentions that align with your values.

Keep it simple. Start with one or two intentions that resonate deeply. These might be as simple as:

• “I intend to bring more kindness into my everyday interactions.”

• “I intend to prioritize rest, rejuvenation and self-care.”

Remember, intentions thrive on simplicity and consistency.

Anchor your intentions into your daily routine. Intentions are most powerful when you revisit them often. You might write yours in a journal, place them onto sticky notes around your home, on your mirror, or incorporate them into a morning mantra. Here’s an idea: As you savor your morning coffee or tea, you could affirm: “Today, I intend to approach challenges with patience and grace.” Don’t just think it. Say it out loud!

Every step you take toward living with intention is a victory. If your intention is to cultivate gratitude, celebrate when you take a moment to appreciate a sunset or send a heartfelt thank-you to a friend. Connect to the feeling of joy with your intention and your intention will naturally become a part of your life.

2025 is an invitation to embrace intentional living — a practice that connects us to the present moment and allows us to approach life with more curiosity and compassion. Instead of striving for perfection, we can focus on progress. Instead of fearing failure, we can view every stumble as a learning opportunity or lesson.

As the new year unfolds, remember this: Intentions are not about “fixing” anything — they’re about celebrating the person you already are while gently guiding yourself to your highest self and the person you’ve always dreamed of becoming. You’re not broken. You’re simply a human being focused on becoming better and better with each passing day.

Here’s to a new year filled with passion, purpose, presence, and possibility. May 2025 be one of joy, magic, and miracles — for you and for all those whose lives you will touch in the coming year.

Onwards and upwards, beauties, and a very Happy New Year!