Rethinking New Year Resolutions: Setting Intentions

Alex Koupal • December 22, 2023

Setting Intentions for 2024

The start of a new year usually kicks off with everyone making resolutions, right? But let's be real: those promises tend to fizzle out faster than a sparkler on New Year's Eve. Stats say about 80% of resolutions wave goodbye before February even arrives (Forbes, Inc.). So, how about trying something different this year?


Instead of the traditional route of setting resolutions, I've found a more fulfilling approach: setting intentions. Intentions are like guiding principles, themes, or gentle reminders that shape the year ahead. They're less about rigid goals and more about fostering a positive mindset and lifestyle. I've found that setting intentions for my year beats resolutions any day! Instead of the traditional route of setting resolutions, I've found a more fulfilling approach: setting intentions. Intentions are like guiding principles, themes, or gentle reminders that shape the year ahead. They're less about rigid goals and more about fostering a positive mindset and lifestyle.


For instance, rather than aiming for specific milestones, I set 3-6 intentions for the year.  This year I had "Love my Home, "Embrace a Growth Mindset, Heal My Body, Be Selective About How I Spend My Time, and Amass Wealth. " These intentions serve as a compass, guiding my actions and decisions throughout the year. They're reminders to prioritize certain aspects of life or focus on personal growth areas.


The beauty of intentions lies in their flexibility and adaptability. They allow room for growth, change, and self-reflection. I find it empowering to print out these intentions and display them prominently in my office, right next to my computer.  Where I can see and read them every day.  I find that when I’m having a rough day filled with uncertainty and stress, these visual cues serve as daily reminders to stay aligned with my aspirations and remind me what matters most.

Rather than setting resolutions that may feel daunting or strict, embracing intentions cultivates a more mindful and holistic approach to personal development. It's about fostering habits, nurturing positivity, and directing attention towards what truly matters.


This year, I urge you to forget the pressure of big resolutions that might fade fast and  consider setting intentions that resonate with your values and aspirations. Set intentions that vibe with what you really want for the year. Write down a few things that will serve as gentle nudges throughout the year that will help guide you toward a more meaningful and purposeful life in 2024.   


Here’s to an awesome and fulfilling year ahead. Cheers to setting intentions and making this year one to remember!



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By Alex Koupal April 16, 2025
Let’s be real—figuring out what you actually want in life can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with half the pieces missing. If you’re a busy mom juggling a million things or a twenty-something stuck in “what’s next?” mode, the pressure to have it all figured out is exhausting . But here’s the thing: You don’t need a five-year plan. You just need a starting point.  1. Stop Stressing About Having the "Right" Answer No one wakes up one day with a perfectly clear vision of their future. Life is messy, careers change, and passions evolve. Give yourself permission to explore instead of forcing yourself to commit to one path forever. Take the pressure off—it’s not that serious. 2. Follow What Feels Good What are you naturally drawn to? What do you find yourself Googling or watching a TikTok at 2 AM? Pay attention to the things that spark your interest—that’s where the magic starts. 3. Try Before You Decide You don’t have to quit your job or go back to school tomorrow. Test things out! Take a class, volunteer, start a side hustle—get a feel for what excites you before making big moves. 4. Talk to Real People I know, I know… talking to people can be awkward, but real opportunities don’t just knock on your door. Reach out to people who are doing something that interests you. Ask them how they got there. You’d be surprised how many are willing to share advice—and how much clarity you’ll gain just by listening. 5. Just Take the First Step The biggest thing holding people back? Overthinking. (Yep, shocking, I know.) Stop waiting for the perfect plan and just start —sign up for that workshop, send that email, go to that event. Clarity comes from doing , not from obsessing over every little detail. You don’t need all the answers today. Just take one small step and trust that you're figuring it out as you go. 6. Don’t Do It Alone Big decisions feel less overwhelming when you have someone in your corner. A mentor, coach, or even just a trusted friend can help you see things from a different perspective. If you’re feeling stuck, let’s talk! Book a clarity session —sometimes, all you need is a little guidance to get moving in the right direction.
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