"I don't have any control over what actually happens except for that I have full control over my will for myself, my intention, and why I'm there. That's all that matters." ~ SZA

Each new year greets us with possibilities. Possibilities for ourselves, for our loved ones, for our communities. In December, we examined how we can take advantage of hope and opportunity and channel our inner calm to prepare us for the challenges that come our way. Now, at the beginning of 2025, we are ready to reflect on what we already have inside of ourselves and SET INTENTIONS that turn our possibilities into reality.

So how do we begin? Setting intentions does not need to be difficult. By looking at the strengths and skills we already have within us, we can recognize the tools we can use to foster our growth such as creativity, compassion, and dedication. Additionally, we can use "I will" statements rather than "I want" or "I won't" phrases so that our intentions can be shaped by what we already have and provide us the opportunity to grow. By crafting clear intentions, we can guide our decision-making and behavior to align with our goals.

3 TOOLS FOR SETTING INTENTIONS

1. Find Your Inner Peace. Start with the person you are in this moment. Remind yourself of who you are, what you value, and how you can leverage your strengths.

2. Remember, You Have the Power to Design Your Own Life. You get to decide what your life becomes! Reflect on your values and strengths to see what areas you would like to focus on this year.

3. Practice Self-Compassion. Obstacles are bound to happen! Be gentle with yourself and remember that, you are doing everything you can in this moment with the knowledge and resources you have. Progress is the goal, not perfection. You got this!

Check out our entire January newsletter focused on Setting Intentions here.

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Throughout January we have been focused on the theme of  SETTING INTENTIONS. An intention is a personal commitment to YOU - how do you want to BE/what do you want to BECOME? 

Setting intentions requires a great deal of self-awareness. We explored mapping your journey as a caregiver - managing expectations (of ourselves and others) - and open-mindedness.

"Self-awareness is important when setting intentions. It’s the ability to possess the knowledge, understanding, and recognition of who you are. Knowing yourself means being mindful of your disposition, character, motives, strengths, weaknesses, passions, and desires. Self-awareness allows us to identify what makes us unique in terms of our thoughts and actions. Having all this information can be empowering; you are more likely to be introspective and ready to decide on your intentions when you know yourself, which is an important element of healing and transformation." ~ Diana Raab

What if setting intentions feels HARD?  Maybe you're worried about not living into your intention? Or perhaps you're concerned about facing your fears or are feeling discouraged or even disappointed?

We all get off track sometimes. Practice self-compassion - be gentle with yourself.  You've done hard things before - you can do it again! Take a pause - consider where you went off course - and commit to trying again tomorrow. Recommit in a kinder and gentler way.

Today, I will be more present.

This month, I will practice patience.

This year, I will celebrate my progress. 

Remember - it's not about perfection - it's about PROGRESS. 

I am a perfectly imperfect perpetual work in progress. 

Check out our entire January Newsletter focused on Setting Intentions here.

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