Intentions for 2025!

New Year's Eve has long been my favorite holiday. It's not because of the big celebrations, as I tend to keep things relatively quiet on the day itself. This year I had some bubbly and nutritionally unsound snacks while watching Anderson & Andy on CNN with my family. Pretty calm evening, with space for my mind to wander — as I prefer. (By all means, party on if that seems like a good time!)

What I love about New Year's is being on the verge of the new. All of that possibility. All those fresh starts. All of those opportunities to find fulfillment, make discoveries, grow, and find peace.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, I'm also a proponent of new year's resolutions, especially when they're sincere and actionable. They sure help me go my own way, even though I don't accomplish all of them (and sometimes change my mind!).

Set out on your path for 2025! This wildlife sanctuary here in Lewes, Delaware, inspires me. (Photo by David DeWitt)

Find your own way to handle your resolutions. I've found that most folks make lists that focus on accomplishments ("I will work out four days a week," "I will publish a new article"), experiences ("I'll visit my friend in Connecticut"), and/or transformations ("I'll become a more frequent reader," "I'll become more social"). Some resolutions may include a bit of each ("I'll work to become more rooted by meditating seven mornings a week").

But when making resolutions, here are three things to consider.

1) When listing your desires, be careful that they don't devolve into a burdensome bunch of mandates. The words, I've found, matter less than your approach. It's good to have specific dreams in mind, and they can be big dreams, but maintain your flexibility. We do have to go with the flow of the world in the meantime, and instead of seeing that as an obstacle, recognize how it can reveal a better path than your conscious mind had established!

2) When considering transformations you want to make, make sure they're authentic. Check that you're not absorbing external signals about what you should become. Center on yourself before you venture into new territory. Then try experiments and revise as desired.

3) Remember that NOW is the moment of power. While some dreams may involve multiple steps and patience, focus on what steps you can take RIGHT NOW. I've been concentrating on this area, and it's helped me avoid procrastination and stay mindful of the present even when making intentions for the future.

I hope these help. But remember they're suggestions only. You're running your life. And it's your new year to explore as you wish!

Interested in coaching to help identify resolutions and find ways to make them happen? Make an appointment for a 15-minute consultation so we can talk about it!