8 Self-Coaching Tips: Why Setting Intentions for 2022 is More Proactive than Setting Resolutions?

8 Self-Coaching Tips: Why Setting Intentions for 2022 is More Proactive than Setting Resolutions? 2 Year Ago · 5 min read

Talyaa Vardar

Talyaa Vardar, MA, FCPC, MCC
Executive Coach, Psychologist & Art Therapist

Yes, it is that time of the year again. So many of us are reflecting on the year we left behind and using the fresh energy of the new year, we are excited to make a new beginning.  We’d like to start the year with resolutions to plant seeds of hope. Speaking with my coaching and therapy clients, in years, I’ve concluded that most resolutions are forgotten in a few months and the optimism fades out. However, instead of resolutions, if we set intentions, then chances are high that we will be able to experience momentum and a sense of achievement in a few weeks as there is a whole different psychology behind setting intentions versus listing new year resolutions. Let me coach you on this as this is a powerful concept, I truly believe in.

5 major differences between intentions and resolutions

  • Intentions, unlike resolutions, are broader and embrace the whole person.
  • Intentions are inclusive of mental, spiritual, and emotional parts of our being versus resolutions are more a list of what one wants from the new year. 
  • Setting intentions can become a great self-awareness process as it helps you reflect on what is important and meaningful for you.
  • Intentions are active versus resolutions are passive. When you say I intend to, the activation of energy happens, and your subconscious starts to work for you.
  • Resolutions are a type of checklists, whereas intentions aim for real transformation and positive shift in an area or multiple areas of life.

8 Self Coaching Questions to Help You Set Intentions

Keeping in mind what makes intentions different from resolutions, ask yourself these powerful self-coaching questions and journal your answers:

  1. What would be the best outcome of 2022 for me?
  2. What about these outcomes are meaningful for me?
  3. How do I want to feel at the end of this year?
  4. What do I need to understand to make difference?
  5. What do I need to improve to make and manage progress?
  6. How will I know I am making progress?
  7. What will success look like?
  8. When and how can I start?