Perseverance is defined as persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. The year 2021 has tested everyone to the extreme. The year has been full of frustration, heartache, and concern that the world may never get back to “normal." It has been difficult for many of us to find gratitude and joy in the everyday, but in order to persevere we must look for these things. Most individuals are familiar with making resolutions for the New Year, but what if instead of a resolution we set an intention for our life in 2022?

Intentions give us the promise of hope, improvement, and can increase our overall wellness and self-worth. I started setting intentions last year rather than resolutions, and I can reflect on the 2021 with more gratitude than I thought possible. Intentions are often confused with goals, but they are so much more than that. Intentions are an opportunity to design and take ownership of our lived experience. Every year we set an intention as a firm, this helps us better serve our clients and community. 

Here’s how to set intentions: 

1. Identify the desire- this can be something big or small. It is important to think about the feeling behind the desire. For instance, feeling heard at home or being more present while at home. Dig deeper to understand why you desire these things. 

2. Be clear on what you have- journal on qualities that you would like to have (e.g. patience, kindness, presence, gratitude). Try writing out sentences that support your identified qualities. 

3. Write specific action steps- by being specific you are increasing your commitment to your intention. 

4. Reinforce your intentions daily- it is important to write out how you are achieving or working on your intentions daily. Using a gratitude journal is helpful for many people. 

5. Let go of any resistance- be positive and give yourself grace. Change is hard, but it is so worth it. 

By setting intentions you are taking steps to becoming a more authentic you. You are identifying what you want and working towards achieving. The New Year is the perfect time to do this, good luck!