2021 is finally here, and most of us are excited to have 2020 behind us and a fresh start.

But, like most things we have experienced over the last 10 months, this new year is different than usual. In the past, a new year meant setting new resolutions for yourself. Perhaps a vow to work out more, drink more water, set new habits.

Due to the pandemic and the uncertainty of what the next year will look like, resolutions are difficult to set this year, as we talked briefly about in our last blog post. That is one of the many reasons many people are ditching resolutions are turning to intention setting for 2021.

What is the difference between resolutions and intentions? To put it simply, resolutions are goals. But because they often do not include a plan for how to achieve these goals, they can set us up for failure. Intentions are more like a how-to for making your life better, keeping you accountable in the process. While a resolution ties you to the future with no clear path forward, an intention grounds you in the present.Here’s how to set your own intentions this year:

Find what brings you joy.

It has been proven that by focusing on the things that make you happy, you’ll bring more positive experiences into your life—so give it a try! Get out a notepad and write down the things you’re passionate about, that motivate you, and that give you your spark.

Come up with a mantra.

Once you have your list, come up with a short mantra incorporating some of the things you’ve written down. For example, instead of resolving to lose weight, what you can say is, “I intend to practice self care daily.” Or, if you want to advance your career, your mantra can be “I will take on a new project that expands my knowledge.” Your mantra can even be just one word—like patience, loyalty or positivity.

Create a vision board.

A visual project is a great way to lock in your intentions and visualize what they will look like in action. A vision board incorporates clippings of words, phrases, and images that can serve as reminders of the long-term rewards of staying true to your mantra and intentions. Make sure to keep your vision board somewhere you can easily see it every day and remain inspired.

Let it go!

Say your mantra each day when you wake up…and then let it go. You’ve planted the seed—now don’t think too much about it! If you’re struggling with this step, try meditation or yoga to help ease your mind and put yourself in a state of greater awareness