As we enter the middle of January, if you are like me, it’s a time for introspection.  I love to use January as a month to tune in and connect with my intentions for the year ahead.  It’s a practice I recommend over the idea of setting New Year’s Resolutions.  You may ask, ‘What’s the difference between a resolution and an intention?’

For me, resolutions always appear to be something made in haste.  They tend to start with the words ‘I will’.  They are usually something more guided by ego, trying to change an undesired habit or accomplish a personal goal.  They tend to reinforce the belief that, ‘I’ll be happy once when….’  They almost always fail within a few days, weeks or months.  Have you ever noticed gym memberships increase in January and by the end of the month numbers taper off due to a loss of interest or pushing too much and injuries arise?

An intention on the other hand, is more an aim.  You give yourself time to connect with your heart.  It will be something that calls you into action, a direction of something you want to focus on and improve.

Setting an intention brings a time of change – What is it you’re trying to bring into your life right now? What does your heart desire?  How does it make you feel when you think of your intention coming to fruition? What do you need to change or do to help your intention grow? How will it benefit you, your loved one’s and your community?

One small change at a time is all you need to do.  It is best to make small lasting changes rather than trying to do a big overhaul of everything all at once.  Remember when you break things down into small jobs or bite-size chunks, nothing is particularly hard or daunting.  When an intention is from the heart and you truly believe in yourself, you usually achieve your goal and/or something more.

There are times in life when you know your exact direction and there are times it’s unclear.  It’s important to step away from the external noise of everyday life and invite some quiet time into your day.  Give yourself space to meditate and listen to your heart’s desire.  By moving into a place of stillness your mind becomes clear and you begin to unlock your true potential.  Your intention becomes clear.

To nourish your intention, it is important to be clear on what you are asking for and why are you asking for it.  Be as detailed as you can.  See yourself having achieved your goal.  And revisit this feeling, this experience regularly.

For here you can begin to make a small change that brings you one step closer to living your intention – whether it be how you eat, how you talk to yourself, your hours in work, limiting how much time you spend on your phone, watching television or surfing the internet.  By committing to one change such as getting out for a walk or joining a class you change your perspective.  Your view of life changes and you make room for something new.   Ask yourself, ‘What is the feeling you are striving for?’ ‘Is it a feeling of love, inner harmony, contentment, freedom, adventure or feeling accepted?’  It can be whatever you like and be clear on why you want to feel this way.  The more you connect into the feeling you wish to create and why you want to create it the easier it is to make the change you need to.

When you want something, you can’t be lazy and sit around hoping it will happen and fall into your lap.  Ask yourself what you can do to bring you one step closer to achieving your goal. Visualise your intention every day and start with one small change.  Most importantly, trust and have faith that you will receive all the good you deserve.

With love,

Noeleenxx

“Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Tip toe if you must, but take a step.”