Like a sunrise, a new year can be full of positive promise. (This is a picture of the last sunrise of 2025.) I spent time reflecting on the previous year. What I accomplished, what I want to bring with me into the new year, what I want to leave behind, and letting go of what didn’t work out brings a cleansing breath and a clean slate to the new year. I journal daily, so the ten pages or so of writing I did to the clear things out and set up my intentions for 2026, wasn’t a time waster or a big deal, at least physically. Mentally, it was needed.
After my yoga teacher training, I learned the difference between goals and intentions. I gave up making New Year’s resolutions decades ago. But for a while, I did write goals. Now, I do intentions. It’s a different mindset. It’s about the path, not the destination. Goals, by the way they’re designed, require determination and striving to reach the end. Oftentimes, joy isn’t part of the journey and can be fleeting if the goal is even reached. Intentions are a focus on priorities which include enjoyment along the path. There is no “end” to an intention, perhaps a shift in attention or importance. Intentions allow for space, for learning, for grace (especially when our focus wavers or life intervenes).
I have 4 writer-type intentions. I have other intentions for Holly, for me, for how I use my time. That grace mentioned previously? I’m giving that to myself. My hard deadline of 12/31/25 for finishing my classroom materials has been extended. Just today, I received files back from my graphic designer. I did my part, then forwarded things to my web designer. I have 5 more items to go through. I’m on a roll, though my momentum and enthusiasm for this massive project has waned. I need to finish while I remember how to work the tech to get things how I want. This is not a project I will revisit. If I don’t finish, those few pieces will continue to hang out in the back of my mind. I want it clear for writing projects.
With my new calendar and list of intentions (including actions I can take that will move me down that path), I’m ready for the promise of 2026. It’s only January 2, and already a piece has shifted. I’ll be patient and see where it goes. In the meantime, I have my routines and the excitement and enjoyment of starting a new year.
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