Resolve to Evolve
A resolution is a firm decision to do or not to do something, while an intention is a guiding principle or aim that reflects your values. Intentions allow us to be wildly creative, more keenly aware, and mindful of the area in which we would like to experience a transformation.
I love the term Sankalpa, a Sanskrit word meaning resolve or good intention. Sankalpa is a practice rooted in Hindu and yogic traditions that involves creating a focused intent to guide one’s thoughts and actions. It is a harmonization of heart and mind, resulting in the laser-focused aim on a specific area of transformation. By setting your Sankalpa, you make it clear to yourself, others, and the Universal Intelligence, which I call the Divine, not only what you plan to do but who you plan to be while doing it. Sankalpa is a powerful way to align your energy and purpose, resulting in a fulfilling pilgrimage throughout the year.
Resolutions are precise goals focused on the outcome, whereas intentions concentrate more on the journey. A resolution sounds like this: “I’m going to lose ten pounds.” A Sankalpa sounds like this: “I make healthy eating choices for myself.” By living your Sankalpa, you will experience the release of excess weight, which could be ten or more pounds, as well as increased self-esteem as the result of respecting your body and nourishing it with healthy eating choices.
Since we are now in the first week of January, you may have already declared your resolutions. You can fine-tune them now. Please email me if you need help adjusting a resolution to a Sankalpa.
To turn your resolutions into intentions, focus on the underlying values and mindset behind your goals. Instead of solely concentrating on specific outcomes, consider the qualities you want to embody or the positive changes you aim to bring into your life. For example, if you resolve to exercise more, the corresponding intention could be to foster a commitment to overall well-being and vitality. This perspective shift aligns your goals with a broader, more meaningful purpose.
If you still need to set a Sankalpa for the new year, you can begin this week by taking some time to contemplate your journey over the past year. Ask yourself these questions: “What did I accomplish? What did I create? What could I have done better? How could I have been better? Is there anything I didn’t do or be that I wish I had? Do I have any forgiveness work to do?”
Next, contemplate what you would love to experience in the year ahead, who you want to be or be more of, and what you would love to accomplish. Listen to your inner guide for one word representing your North Star for the year. Lastly, choose a theme song that exemplifies your intention or Sankalpa to make it fun.
We live in a progressive universe. Resolve to evolve with it. Happy New Year!
And so it is.
