Every year, as the clock winds down on the current year, we tell ourselves we are going to do things differently in the new year. We sign up for gym memberships, we enroll in classes, or we pull out the supplies for a long-forgotten hobby. Despite our noble efforts, however, most of us are lying to ourselves about our will to follow through. With that in mind, I say, “Resolutions, shmesolutions!”
Let us make a real commitment to do something with ourselves for 2021! If the last year has taught us anything, it is that life is fleeting, and we need to embrace the now. As I transition into the new year, I have several plans for change. Be clear, I am not making resolutions; this year, I am listing my intentions.
My Intentions for the New Year
1. Allow Myself Some Time
On December 9, 2020, around noon, I entered the operating room for the removal of a herniated disc that was compressing my sciatic nerve. It was my second surgery in as many years and one that I do not care to repeat. A positive prognosis for my back is going to require a bit of care on my part, but it will also require a dramatic slow-down. For that reason, I intend to give myself that time. I rushed through my recovery after my last surgery. Those days are gone. My body and mind need the time to heal—and in 2021, I will allow it.
2. Roll with the Proverbial Punches
In my day job, I work in healthcare. Therefore, I am expected to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Upon being informed that I am eligible to receive the vaccine, I left the safety of my recovery zone to go get inoculated. When I arrived at the facility, several of my co-workers and I were told that we were not of the highest priority. While I was a bit ticked off about wasting my time, I understand the necessity for others to receive the vaccine before I do. I have gotten over my brief period of anger and am adopting a “roll with the punches” philosophy. Eventually, when my employer (including me and the rest of the staff) is considered a higher priority, I will get the vaccine. Being angry about it does nothing but poison my day. It changes nothing.
3. Learn
I began the period of quarantine with a heavy heart and a great deal of worry. Then, I changed my tune a bit and made the decision to learn to play the guitar. Life happened, and I didn’t master the instrument. However, with everything still in a state of stasis, I intend to pick it back up and actually learn to play. Rounding out my list is learning to efficiently fold a fitted sheet every time I attempt it, teaching myself to knit, and possibly beginning to master the native tongue of some of my people (Italian). Not only do I intend to learn how to do several new things, but I also want to learn from the situations surrounding me and grow from those experiences and observations.
Final Thoughts on Heading into 2021 with Intention
Rather than making resolutions that are quickly abandoned or making plans that will never be realized, I have chosen to empower myself with my intentions for self-development.
What are your intentions for 2021? Please share them with me and our readers in a comment below!
