A couple of years back I stopped making traditional new year’s resolutions and started setting new year’s intentions instead.

The way I practice setting intentions is by collecting a few words (usually 3) that are resonating with me at the end or start of the year. I write out their definitions (sometimes they have a couple so I choose the one that feels most aligned) and jot down how I want to implement their meaning into my life more. Essentially, these words set the tone for the year and how I’d like it to feel, while offering gentle guidance along the way whenever I think of them.

In today’s post I’ll be reflecting the three words I set out with in 2021 and the three words I’ll be keeping close to my heart through 2022.

If you’re interested in this type of thing, find a comfy seat with a space for making notes as we take a moment to release the year behind us and welcome the year ahead.

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I decided to pair this outfit with this post because I felt so good in it over the holidays. It’s effortless and comfortable and yet still elegant with a rich palette of tones and textures. It mixes some of my all-time favourite pieces to create a look that feels true to not just who I am now but the person I’m evolving into as well, which is a quality that’s becoming increasingly important to my style choices.

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OUTFIT SOURCES

• LONG MERINO TURTLENECK TUNIC – gifted – Eileen Fisher – I’m wearing my usual XS in EF – Also available in black.
• BLACK SILK PANT – old – Elizabeth Suzann – Linked to a very similar option.
• SUEDE GLOVE BOOT – old | AQUATALIA | Linked to a similar option from the same brand and these are a similar style for less.
• CASHMERE CAMEL COAT – THE CURATED | Fits true to size. | In-depth review here. | Similar option for less here.
• CIRCLE BAG – old | Style Bee x Opelle | Linked to a similar option.
• LEGGINGS & LONG SLEEVE (not shown but essential for warmth) – both from Everlane and true to size.

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REFLECTING ON

MY WORDS FROM 2021

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JOY

This year had so many joyful moments and I can honestly say that I made a cognitive effort to be present for them, much more than I would have in the past (thank you meditation!). Whether it was time by the lake with friends and family, forest walks with Dobby, boat rides with Dave, morning sun beams with Evie, or just a moment alone listening to the water, I really savoured each burst of joy.

I also made an effort to alleviate the joy inhibitors in my life. Things like negative self-talk, stress over things out of my control, the opinions of others, comparing my life to that of strangers, time on social media, and the list goes on.

The incredible thing I learned about joy is that it’s always nearby, you just need to make room for it sometimes.

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COURAGE

I grew up a lot this year as I faced some difficult circumstances. I was confronted by both my strengths and weaknesses and stepped into roles I wasn’t always sure I could handle but, ultimately, I found my way through.

I made hard choices that I knew were right for me and Dave and the life we’re building together. Even if they wouldn’t please everyone and weren’t the easiest path forward. I trusted my instincts when it came to work and chose to finally commit to following my creative energy. This led me away from paths that felt unnatural (like social media) and opened new doors for my business (like my newsletter).

I learned that courage often reveals itself after the fact. It’s presence is easily overridden by fear in the moment but it’s within us just the same.

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PURPOSE

In 2021 I began letting go of a lot of limiting beliefs and identities I’d been holding onto. Old versions of myself that were only getting in my way.

I stopped saying yes to things that didn’t serve an essential purpose in my life or business. My long break from social media offered a renewed sense of the purpose my work holds and showed me that it can evolve and change and still continue to have a positive impact.

Overall, I feel like I’m able to say that my future self would be proud of how I stepped up for the people I love, and myself, this year.

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MY 3 WORDS FOR 2022

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EMBRACE

Accept or support a belief, theory, or change willingly and enthusiastically.

In 2022 I am EMBRACING:

Challenges

Joy

Change

The unexpected

My truth, vision & dreams

What I can & cannot change

Hard work

Growth

A higher version of myself.

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INVEST

Devote one’s time, effort, or energy to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result.

In 2022 I am “INVESTING” in my:

Best relationships

Partnership with Dave

Business

Community

Strengths

Skills

Passions

Home

Future

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BELIEVE

Accept something as true; feel sure of the truth of.

In 2022 I “BELIEVE” in:

The choices I make

That I deserve to thrive

The validity of my work

My capabilities

What is meant for me will find me

All the hard work will be worth it

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& that’s all there is to it really! I try not to have too many expectations about how these words will take shape in my life, however, it can be really comforting to have these intentions at the ready when I’m feeling lost, overwhelmed or unsure about something.

I also highly recommend sharing your words with a couple of close friends who will cheer you on throughout the year. It’s fun to learn what their words are and to look back at the ones you each chose the year prior.

If you need some ideas for words, this reel by Morgan Harper Nichols has lots of good ones!

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Thanks for joining my intention setting practice with me. I hope this was insightful for you and maybe even encourages you to consider your own word(s) for the year. Nothing is set in stone but it’s nice to have a bit of gentle self-guidance as we head into the next 12 months.

If you’re comfortable sharing, I’d love to hear what your words are for the year in the comments!