Setting Intentions for a Meaningful 2025

As we stand on the brink of a new year, contemplating the end of another chapter and the fresh beginnings that await us in 2025, I find myself reflecting on the common question that arises this time of year: “What are your New Year’s resolutions?”

Years ago, I decided to step away from the traditional notion of resolutions. Like many, I struggled to keep them, often feeling disheartened when I fell short of my goals. Instead, I shifted my focus to setting a theme for the year and establishing intentions. Why? Because it feels more achievable to commit to one overarching theme and set intentions that allow me to celebrate incremental changes, even if the full intention isn’t realized. This shift sets me up for a more positive and optimistic mindset as I embark on the new year.

Let’s break it down. According to the Oxford Dictionary, a resolution is defined as “a firm decision to do or not to do something”, while an intention is “a thing intended; an aim or plan”. Resolutions are inherently binary—they focus on a predetermined destination, measured in terms of success or failure. On the other hand, intentions are fluid and adaptable. They guide us toward where we want to go, asking us to consider what we are doing, why, and where to place our energy.

For example, one of my intentions this year was to ride a minimum of 50 km per week. While this aimed at a total of 2,600 km for the year, its power came from flexibility. On weeks when I felt run down or too busy, I leaned into what my body needed without beating myself up. This intention encouraged me to focus on balance rather than rigid goals. The result? There were many weeks where I rode more than 100 km, and as the year comes to a close, I’ve far surpassed my original target.

For 2024, my theme was one of gratitude, appreciation, and celebration. I aimed to foster a deeper connection with my loved ones, invest in personal growth, and enhance my professional expertise. To support this theme, I set intentions across three key areas: Relationships (Family), Personal Growth (Self), and Professional (Career).

Here are three examples of intentions I set:

• Expressing gratitude in my relationships each day (Family) – Cultivating appreciation for those around me and the moments we share.

• Riding a minimum of 50 km per week (Self) – Committing to a total of 2,600 km for the year to promote physical health and mental clarity.

• Increasing knowledge and expertise in Product (Career) – Dedicating time to learning and growing in my professional field.

As we approach the end of the year and I reflect on my journey, I feel a sense of pride in what I’ve achieved. While I haven’t realized every intention completely, I have fostered a greater sense of gratitude and appreciation this year, and there have been countless moments of celebration along the way.

How to Set Intentions for a Meaningful Year

Setting intentions is about growth, not perfection. Here’s how you can set yourself up for success in 2025:

1. Reflect on What Matters
   Think about what brings you joy and fulfillment. Ask yourself, What do I want more of this year? Where do I need to focus my energy?

2. Choose a Theme
   Pick one guiding theme for the year (e.g., growth, balance, connection). Let it be your compass, helping you navigate each decision and intention.

3. Break It Down
   Turn your theme into actionable, realistic intentions. Consider, What small, achievable steps can I take? How will I measure my progress, even in tiny increments?

4. Balance Ambition with Reality
   Set yourself up for success by choosing intentions that challenge you without overwhelming your schedule. Aim for realistic, impactful growth.

5. Create Routine and Consistency
   Build simple habits around your intentions—whether it’s setting weekly reminders or tracking your progress. Small steps create momentum.

6. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
   Embrace progress, even if it’s small. Celebrate each win and adjust as needed. The goal is steady growth, not perfection.

This approach makes setting intentions achievable, realistic, and empowering. As you reflect on 2025, think about what you want to focus on and how those intentions can shape your journey. If you’d like support in aligning your actions with your goals, I’d love to help you bring those intentions to life through SheLeads Coaching.

Together, let’s embrace this new year as a time for growth, reflection, and empowerment. Here’s to a year filled with possibilities, connection, and authentic leadership!