Resolutions vs Intentions

Resolutions seem be a grand idea, based in integrity, inspiration and good intention, a way to tap into our motivation and ambition.  The hypothesis is that if we just name our goals, maybe even proclaim them on social media, we will be more likely to meet them.

But as a Licensed Therapist, International Speaker and Mindset & Transformation Coach, I am here to tell you that they are a bag of bull.  

Did you know that only 9% of people report that they met their resolutions by the following year end?  That is right- 91% of people do not meet their resolutions. I’d like to think that a pretty telling stat highlighting that they just do not work.

But why?

Well… fundamentally you are the same person who goes to sleep on December 31 that wakes up on January 1. Goals are met when there is renewed energy, support systems in place, and actionable steps that are small and manageable.  Manifestation is super rad, but it is more than just speaking something into the universe; and most people who claim resolutions have not committed to that energy, support or planning.

For instance, the most common resolution is to lose weight and go to the gym (sidebar: You are worthy and awesome no matter what size you are!).  Those with this resolution might believe that committing to it is enough.  They maybe even joined a gym. (Gym memberships increase by more than 20% in January).  But without support, without a plan, without understanding the “why” behind the reason they even want to meet this goal, motivation will eventually dry up.

So what do you do instead?

I believe in setting intentions.  While resolutions are commitments to action, intentions are commitments to mindset, to thinking, to philosophy.  So instead of “I am going to go to the gym 4 times a week” or “lose 10 pounds”, an intention might be “I would like to incorporate more movement into my life”. Intentions are safer and is less contingent on objective marks of failure or success.  Resolutions are often based on feelings of inferiority and thoughts that life is not enough or needs to be fixed.  Conversely, intentions are based in abundance and opportunity and bring value rather than judgement to life.

Need some help getting there?  Talking to a therapist and/or coach is a great way to activate energy around goals and connect to your confidence and power.