The New Year is an obvious time to think about goals but some of you just want the New Year to be over. Maybe just getting through the holidays was enough...

If that's the case, here's another option for you. Set an intention to improve one thing this year. I do this every year and it helps me decide where to put my energy.

Life is about learning to handle the unexpected. Get better at relationships. Let go of the results and trust that tomorrow is a new day. It's learning to enjoy life because without that what's the point?

When you accomplish goals- even the little ones - you feel good about yourself. It's about making progress not seeking perfection.

The problem most people have with setting goals is a fear of not achieving them. Sure, you can write them down (studies show that increases your success) and tape it to your bathroom mirror, only to forget weeks later. That's okay. It's human to get busy and forget.

Here is an easier way to start.

Set your intention to get better at one thing. It could be finding a hobby because you work too much or not yelling at your family. Maybe you'd like to say what you really think rather than agreeing with popular opinion. Find healthier ways to deal with stress. 

It can be anything. Pick that one thing that would make your life easier.

There's no rule book or deadline. That's the only way it works - by not "should-ing" yourself. When you make yourself wrong you avoid setting goals again in the future. You assume you'll fail so why bother? That just creates hopelessness.

This year my intention is to create more space before reacting. Taking a breath and noticing what happens when I look at my reactions. Simple but powerful. But if I forget, I forget. No need to beat myself up.

By sharing my intention with friends and family, I'll be reminded to keep practicing it. Eventually, it will become second nature to slow down my reactions and breathe first. That's the way I've gained more skills, by simply starting with one thing.

Be gentle with yourself that it won't look perfect.  Accept however you do it. If you forget you'll practice when you remember again.There is no wrong way to grow. Set your intention and begin the practice. I'd LOVE to hear your intention! Leave a comment here!