As the New Year dawns, the air fills with an infectious optimism. We make resolutions, vowing to do better, be better and live better. Yet, by March, many of these promises are distant memories, discarded like old carnival costumes. Why does this happen? Perhaps it’s because resolutions often focus on what we want to change, without delving into why we want to change or how we’ll stay connected to our purpose.
As a Trinbagonian woman, I’ve learned the art of intention, a practice steeped in mindfulness, authenticity and resilience. Let’s explore how intention differs from resolution and how this subtle shift can transform your year.
The Problem with Resolutions
Resolutions are often rigid and outcome-focused: “I will lose 20 pounds” or “I will save $5,000.” While there’s nothing wrong with having goals, resolutions can feel like ultimatums, do or fail. They leave little room for the ebb and flow of life, for the unexpected detours and growth that don’t fit neatly into pre-determined boxes.
In our Trinbagonian culture, we understand the beauty of rhythm. Whether it’s the lilting melody of a steelpan or the syncopated beats of soca, we know that life is not a straight line. Instead, it’s a dance, full of improvisation and grace. Resolutions, in their rigidity, often fail to account for this truth.
The Power of Intention
Intention is different. It is less about the destination and more about the journey. Where resolutions focus on doing, intentions focus on being. It’s not about ticking boxes but about living in alignment with your values and desires.
For example, instead of saying, “I will exercise five times a week,” an intention might be, “I will honour my body and prioritise its well-being.” This allows for flexibility: some weeks, honouring your body might mean a rigorous workout; other weeks, it might mean rest and recovery.
How to Set Intentions
Reflect on Your Values: Take time to understand what matters most to you. Is it health, connection, creativity, or service? Your intentions should align with your core values.
Be Present: Intentions require mindfulness. It’s about asking yourself, “How do I want to feel today?” rather than, “What must I achieve?”
Use Affirmative Language: Frame your intentions positively. Instead of focusing on what you want to avoid, focus on what you want to embrace. For instance, “I will cultivate joy” is more empowering than “I will stop being unhappy.”
Stay Fluid: Life is unpredictable, and so are we. Allow your intentions to evolve. Revisit them monthly or quarterly to ensure they still resonate.
Staying on Track All Year
Create Rituals: Anchor your intentions in daily or weekly rituals. This could be a morning meditation, journaling, or a simple practice like lighting a candle to remind yourself of your focus.
Celebrate Small Wins: Unlike resolutions, which often feel like all-or-nothing commitments, intentions encourage celebrating progress. Each step forward is a victory.
Cultivate Community: Share your intentions with trusted friends or groups. In Trinbagonian culture, community is everything. Whether it’s a yoga class, a prayer group, or a lime, surrounding yourself with supportive people keeps you accountable.
Practice Self-Compassion: There will be setbacks. Instead of giving up, learn to forgive yourself and recommit to your intentions. Resilience is at the heart of our Caribbean spirit; we bend but do not break.
Intentional Living in 2025
As we journey through 2025, let us embrace the wisdom of intention. Let’s focus not only on what we want to achieve but on how we want to show up in the world. For me, this year is about living with grace and purpose. It’s about finding joy in the small moments, like the first sip of morning coffee or the laughter of a loved one. It’s about creating a life that feels as vibrant and full as a Carnival Tuesday.
This year let’s release the pressure of perfection. Let’s trade rigid resolutions for heartfelt intentions. And let’s remember that every step we take, no matter how small, is part of a bigger, more beautiful journey.
So, light your candle, take a deep breath, and set your intentions for 2025. The rhythm of life will guide you, and the melody of your heart will keep you on track all year long.
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Ready to make 2025 your year of transformation and purpose? Join our Audacious Evolution Members Challenge this January! Together, we’ll set powerful intentions, cultivate clarity, and take bold steps towards the life you deserve. Don’t wait! Your journey starts now. Sign up today and let’s embrace this year with purpose and audacity! Click the link to join the challenge: https://audaciousevolution.kit.com/c8cbec17fa
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