A new year always feels like a fresh start, a chance to leave behind the trials and tribulations of the past 365 days and set out on a clean slate. Although the New Year seems to be a good time for setting new goals and making changes, I firmly believe every day is a new opportunity, and we should not feel limited to specific times of the year.

I’ve never been a fan of resolutions. How often do we look back at the end of each year and realize that those resolutions or goals fell by the wayside? This is because our focus is often on external measures of success rather than internal growth. So, instead of just making superficial resolutions this year, let’s shift our focus towards setting intentions – mindful statements that guide us towards aligning with our true selves and living a more meaningful life.

If you are ready to dive deeper into creating lasting change in your life, these are the steps that I take and share with my clients to begin the process of “intentional change”

1.Reflect on the past year. 

• Take time to reflect on your accomplishments and challenges.
• Write down what you learned and what you want to improve upon.
• Take time to celebrate your successes and accomplishments.

2) Identify how you want to feel in the new year.

• Write a list of feeling words, for example, Peaceful, Healthy, Strong, Confident, Joyful, etc.
• Next, list actions, behaviors, and people that help you feel how you want to feel. Instead of writing a resolution of “I will go to the gym four times per week,” consider how you want to feel. You may want to feel fit and strong, so you want to incorporate more strength training. You may want to feel more joy this year, so incorporate dance into your fitness routine.
• Find a peaceful place to spend some time alone. Think about your goals, dreams, and desires.
• Write them down in specific and tangible terms.

3) Set clear and achievable intentions. 

• Use the SMART goal method (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound)
• Break down larger goals into smaller actionable steps.

4) Create a vision board or visual representation of your intentions,

• Use images, words, and symbols that represent your goals.
• Use framed photos, signs, or other visual reminders. Choose what feels most inspiring and place them in numerous areas of your home and workspace.

5) Incorporate self-care into your intentions. 

• Prioritize taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally.
• Set intentions for self-care activities like exercise, meditation, and self-development.

6) Stay accountable by sharing your intentions with others. 

Tell close friends or family members about your intentions, work with a coach or therapist, or join an accountability group.

Change is not easy, but it is possible. Self-love is the most important thing to create positive change in your life. When we love ourselves, most other things will begin to work out.