Are you someone who always sets New Year’s resolutions but eventually finds it hard to keep them? Do you end up feeling disappointed and guilty because you couldn’t achieve them? I understand how you feel. Traditional resolutions can often make us focus on what we think we should be doing instead of what truly matters to us.

That’s why I would like to suggest a more compassionate approach to set goals for the year ahead – setting intentions. Intentions allow us to align our actions with our values and desired feelings, giving us a greater sense of purpose and fulfilment. They give us the flexibility and room to grow, acknowledging that life doesn’t always go as planned, especially when you’re a mother to small children.

So, instead of rigid resolutions, start by asking yourself three important questions:

1. What do I want to do more of this year?  

Identify the activities that bring you joy and make you feel like your authentic self. These are the things that will go on your must-do list, and you can proactively seek out opportunities to incorporate them into your life.

2. What do I want to do less of this year?  

Take a closer look at the activities that drain your energy and don’t align with your values. Consider reducing or eliminating them from your routine, finding alternatives, delegating tasks, or reframing them to be more in line with your well-being.

3. How do I want this year to feel?  

Pay attention to your emotions and what they are telling you. Think about the experiences and environments that will support your desired feelings. By focusing on how you want to feel, you can make decisions and take actions that will bring you closer to that state of being.

By setting intentions instead of resolutions, you allow yourself the freedom to adapt and evolve throughout the year. Keep these questions in mind and regularly reflect on your progress. Remember, it’s about the journey, not just the destination.

So, as we step into a new year, let’s embrace the power of intentions and create a more meaningful path towards achieving our most fulfilling year yet.

This article was written by Katrina Court, one of Careering into Motherhood’s Partner Coaches. Katrina is a certified coach who specialises in matrescence – the transition women go through in becoming a mother. She offers a blend of coaching and mentoring to women in the early years of matrescence and to those returning to the workplace after parental leave, who want to do motherhood differently. You can find out more and book a free discovery call through her profile page.

 

December 18, 2023