New Year’s resolutions? They’re overrated, rigid, and honestly, they make you feel like you’re not enough. But you are enough. This year, instead of chasing perfection, why not set a theme that gently guides you towards growth? Here’s how intentions – not resolutions – can transform your 2025.
Johannesburg, South Africa (01 January 2025) – For a few years now, I’ve ditched New Year’s resolutions. Let’s be honest – they’re shitty. They often set you up to fail, or worse, make you feel like you’re somehow broken or not enough just as you are.
But let me tell you something: you’re not less better, or more worse, or broken.
You’re YOU.
You’re trying to juggle everything life throws at you – work, home, friends, family, kids, pets, gym sessions, grief, big dreams, small wins, plans for the future, keeping a pot plant alive, stress, and… well, just surviving some days.
Add in a resolution to that mess? Nee dankie.
Last year, I shared my thoughts on setting intentions instead of resolutions. And honestly, it’s a game-changer. A resolution feels rigid, like a line in the sand. But an intention? It’s fluid. It’s a theme for the year, like “embrace growth and learning,” “prioritise wellness,” or “cultivate connection.”
Intentions don’t tell you to change who you are – they guide you, gently, towards who you want to be.
This year, my intention is to live with purpose and intention.
For me, that means being present, showing up fully, and aligning my choices with what really matters. And it’s also not some grand, dramatic thing – purpose and intention are found in the small, consistent steps.
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But here’s the thing – I’ve learned that even with the best intentions, it helps to have a roadmap.
Last year, alongside my intention, I wrote down some goals. Not rigid rules, but broad strokes to guide me forward. I added them to my “Reminders” app, which I open every day. That means I see these goals every single day.
Advertising has this thing called the “Rule of 7” – the idea that someone needs to see a message at least seven times before it sticks. That’s why I believe seeing my goals every day works. They don’t sit forgotten in a diary or at the back of my mind. They’re there, constantly reminding me, keeping me aligned, moving me forward.
Pairing my intention with these daily reminders makes everything more focused. It’s not about perfection – it’s about progress. Living with purpose and intention isn’t a destination; it’s a practice.
So, here’s to 2025. Not with resolutions, but with a clear intention and the quiet determination to keep showing up, growing, and moving forward.
Whatever your intention is, I hope it carries you towards something beautiful.
Also, it’s only the first day of 2025, but I already know that I really hate tequila.
Okay. Love you. Bye.
by 
Thank you for this excellent article It was very helpful and informative.