Begin Again | Intentions Rooted in Self-Love for the New Year

Jesse always dreaded the last week of December. The relentless chatter about resolutions made them feel like they were behind before the year even began.

They’d make a list—big and ambitious—vowing to change everything about themselves: eat cleaner, work harder, wake up earlier. By mid-January, the list had become a source of shame, a reminder of all the ways they thought they had fallen short.

But last year, Jesse tried something new. Instead of resolutions, they set intentions. These weren’t about fixing themselves but about embracing themselves. Their intentions were simple: move with kindness, listen to their body, and celebrate their progress.

That subtle shift transformed their year. Instead of chasing unattainable goals, they worked with their natural rhythms. For the first time in years, they greeted January with confidence instead of self-doubt.

Why I’ve Chosen Intentions Over Resolutions

As the year winds down, I often find myself caught in the same cycle—looking back at the year that passed, critiquing what didn’t go as planned, and imagining all the ways I’ll be “better” next year.

But one thing I’ve learned is that setting goals from a place of lack—thinking you’re not enough—rarely leads to meaningful change. True growth begins with self-compassion, with the belief that you’re already worthy, just as you are.

That’s why, instead of rigid resolutions, I now choose intentions. Intentions honor who I am in this moment while gently guiding me toward who I want to become.

Now it’s Your Turn

Imagine yourself sitting quietly as the clock approaches midnight on New Year’s Eve. You’re holding a journal, reflecting not on what you didn’t achieve, but on all the moments you grew this past year.

You jot down the challenges you faced and how you moved through them. The small victories that once felt insignificant but were stepping stones to your resilience. The people who lit up your year, and the moments you found peace in your own company.

Here’s how you can set intentions that feel expansive and loving:

5 Actionable Steps to Start Fresh with Self-Love

1. Release the Old Year

   • Write down one thing you want to leave behind in 2024—a habit, a mindset, or an expectation. Burn or tear up the paper as a symbolic act of letting go.

2. Choose Three Intentions

   • Focus on how you want to feel. Maybe it’s energized, calm, or confident. Frame your intentions around these feelings:

     • "I intend to nourish my energy with rest and movement."

     • "I intend to create moments of calm through mindfulness."

     • "I intend to build confidence by honoring my progress."

3. Practice Gratitude for Growth

   • List three moments from the past year that you’re proud of. These could be big accomplishments or quiet, personal wins.

4. Create a New Year’s Ritual

   • Set aside time on New Year’s Day for yourself. Light a candle, meditate, or take a reflective walk. Let this ritual symbolize your fresh start.

5. Write Affirmations for the Year Ahead

   • Use statements that affirm your worth:

     • “I am deserving of joy and success.”

     • “I embrace my imperfections as part of my growth.”

     • “I welcome new opportunities with an open heart.”

The new year doesn’t demand a new you—it invites a deeper connection to who you already are. There’s no need to rush, no need to “fix” yourself. As the calendar turns, carry self-compassion with you. Honor your journey, set intentions that align with your values, and let self-love guide you.

Here’s to a year of growth, joy, and becoming even more of yourself.

Happy New Year,

Romen