For the past few years, I’ve been setting intentions that I want to stick to for the year. (Kind of like setting an intention before practicing yoga.) My intention for last year was to focus on my daily habits. I have to give myself some credit here because I think I did a great job with this. A huge help was that I read The Power of Habit this spring. I cannot recommend the book enough. It’s scientifically-backed and anecdotally driven (which I think is the best as it’s entertaining and actually worthwhile) and deep dives into everything you could ever want to know about habits. From breaking bad habits to setting good ones, this book covers it all. This would be a GREAT book to read during the first few weeks of the year, especially if you’re setting resolutions.
So what is my intention for 2020? I want to focus on not comparing myself to others. I have found myself falling victim to this a lot and it affects how I feel about myself. Which is so not healthy.
There’s this quote I saw floating on the Internet about life not being fair and you should only be looking at someone else’s bowl to make sure they have enough, not to see if they have more than you. It’s what I want to keep top of mind. I like that it covers both the issue of comparison and also compassion for the people around you.
Meditation has been very beneficial for my anxiety and an additional side effect was feeling more present than ever. But I know I can be even better with appreciating where I am, what I have, and who I am right now. With social media, it’s easier than ever to think, “I don’t have this,” or “I wish I had that,” or “life would be easier if this and that.” I’m very motivated by goals, which is great, but there is also a freeing element of feeling okay exactly where you are and who you are.
So that’s my intention for 2020! Anyone else setting an intention for the year?
