How about

NO RESOLUTIONS THIS YEAR?

Last year at this time, I was feeling quite pleased with myself for the neatly organized and very comprehensive list of goals I had developed for the New Year.

My goals were specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely.
Or so I thought.

A week later, my life showed me that it had a different plan for me.  At first I resisted: “All that time I spent goal-planning!”  But eventually, when I ditched my resistance, a whole new world of opportunity opened up for me.  Though I had set some good goals, my attitude was stopping me from being open to paths I hadn’t even thought of.

So this year, what about just setting intentions instead?

A goal can be intention, yes.  But I’m talking about examining attitudes and perspectives that move you forward on your path.

If you look back on your goals for 2009 and you review what you achieved or didn’t; what worked or didn’t; and ESPECIALLY, if you’ve had the same intention a few years in a row… take a moment to reflect on the attitude or perspective that could have helped you to make your resolution a reality.

For example, if your resolution was to lose 30lbs, but because you’re so busy taking care of every body else, you tend to neglect your own body, maybe you scratch the resolution “Lose 30lbs” and replace it with “Recognize that I need nurturing and deserve time for myself”.

Holding this new intention or attitude may get you there this year.

Or if you had a goal of obtaining something tangible, but it didn’t happen, perhaps there was a good reason why.  Look at what happened instead… What did you learn from the unexpected?
Perhaps this year, the intention might be to “Remain Flexible”, “Go With the Flow”, or “Release Attachment”.

Have fun with this exercise.  See the gift in all of the unexpected ways that life takes you on your journey.  Be ready, with a clear mind, peace in your heart, and a clear intention to move forward in positive ways.

Best Wishes in this New Year and May All of Your Intentions be Realized.

-Gianna

You are what your deep, driving desire is.

As is your desire, so is your will.

As is your will, so is your deed.

As is your deed, so is your destiny.

-       Brihadaranyaka Upanishad IV