Being Intentional with Your Time in the New Year
Happy New Year FAM! As the new year begins, it’s natural to think about changes we’d like to make and goals we’d like to achieve. But let’s be honest: how often do those lofty New Year’s resolutions fizzle out by February? The truth is, resolutions often fail because they’re focused on the outcome instead of the process. This year, let’s do things differently. Let’s embrace intentionality and focus on building habits and routines that help us succeed, not just for a season but for the long haul.
Why Intentions Over Resolutions?
Resolutions often feel like rigid rules: lose 20 pounds, save $10,000, or exercise every day. While these goals might be well-meaning, they’re often overwhelming and unsustainable. Intentions, on the other hand, are about guiding principles and purposeful actions. They’re flexible, personal, and growth-oriented.
For example, instead of saying, “I’m going to lose 20 pounds,” your intention might be, “I will prioritize nourishing my body and moving it in ways that feel good.” Instead of resolving to “save $10,000,” your intention could be, “I will be mindful about my spending and work to improve my financial health.”
Intentions focus on the “why” behind your goals, helping you stay aligned with your values and build habits that support long-term success.
Building Intentional Habits and Routines
Being intentional with your time is key to achieving your intentions. Here are some practical steps to help your family cultivate a more intentional approach to daily life in the new year:
Start with Reflection
Take time as a family to reflect on the past year. What worked well? What didn’t? What moments brought you the most joy or fulfillment? Reflection helps you identify what’s important and what you want to carry forward.Set Clear Intentions Together
Encourage each family member to set personal intentions and collaborate on a few family intentions. Keep them simple and meaningful. For example:Personal: “I will spend 15 minutes reading before bed to wind down.”
Family: “We will have a screen-free family dinner at least three times a week.”
Create a Routine That Reflects Your Intentions
Routines provide structure and consistency, making it easier to stay intentional. Start small and build gradually. If your intention is to connect more as a family, establish a weekly game night or a Sunday morning breakfast ritual.Use Tools to Stay on Track
Having a system to track your progress can help you stay intentional. Use a family planner, a goal-setting journal, or a shared calendar to keep everyone aligned. For younger kids, consider creating fun visuals like sticker charts to celebrate small wins.Practice Flexibility and Grace
Life happens, especially when you’re raising a family. Some days won’t go as planned, and that’s okay. Intentionality isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. When things go off track, reassess and refocus without judgment.
Making Time for What Matters
Intentionality is about being present and making deliberate choices with your time. Here are a few ideas for families:
Morning Mindset Rituals: Start the day with a moment of gratitude or a quick family check-in.
Family Focus Time: Dedicate a regular block of time to be together without distractions, whether it’s playing games, cooking, or just chatting.
Prioritize Self-Care: Model intentional self-care for your kids by setting aside time for activities that recharge you, like exercising, reading, or journaling.
Declutter Your Schedules: Learn to say no to commitments that don’t align with your family’s values or intentions.
The Power of Intentional Living
When we approach the new year with intentionality, we set the stage for more meaningful and fulfilling lives. Instead of feeling pressured by resolutions, we can focus on creating habits and routines that reflect who we are and what we value. And when we model intentional living for our children, we equip them with the tools they need to succeed in their own lives.
So, as you step into this new year, ask yourself and your family: What do we want more of in our lives? How can we be more intentional with our time, energy, and attention? Let your answers guide you, and watch how small, consistent steps lead to big, lasting change.
Here’s to a year filled with purpose, connection, and intentionality!
One last thing…
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In the meantime, slow down, be present, and let creativity flow—your next great adventure is just a journal away.
Happy New Year!!! Thank you for being here and we look forward to so many more great newsletters, printables and connections in 2025!
xo, Kim
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i threw out the original resolutions this year and made an achievable one. Be on time for at least 5 appointments, outings etc