New Year Check In: Intention Setting for Parents
As the New Year gets underway, many of us think about fresh starts and resolutions. For parents, this provides an opportunity to reflect on how we want to show up for ourselves, our families, and our children in the months ahead. Instead of focusing on rigid, Pinterest-worthy resolutions (which I believe sets us up for failure), consider setting intentions. Intentions are similar to resolutions, but they are kind of like the cooler, less judgmental cousin.
What Are Intentions?
Think of intentions as flexible guideposts that nudge you in the right direction. They gently guide your actions and focus on the energy and values you bring to your day. They are rooted in
who you want to be, not just
what you want to do. Best of all, intentions are about progress, not perfection. And honestly, in parenting, we need all the little wiggle room we can get.
Why Intentions Are a Parenting Lifesaver
Because parenting is an ever-evolving journey and there are no one-size-fits-all answers (despite what the internet says), intention setting allows us to embrace the idea that we are always learning, growing, and aiming to be the best parents we can be.
Setting intentions allows us to stay grounded in the chaos and helps us to remember what matters most: connection, love, presence, and understanding (and surviving bedtime). This is especially important as we juggle so many roles and responsibilities. Intentions remind us to focus on what we can control- our mindset, our reactions, and our ability to support and nurture our families- even when life throws us curveballs.
How to Set Intentions
Reflect on What Matters Most
Take a minute (probably in the shower, because that might be your only alone time) and think about what you value as a parent. What do you want to prioritize this year? Is it more patience, quality time, or more family fun? Reflect on the big picture and let your intentions come from what’s most meaningful to you.
Be Specific AND Flexible
Intentions should feel aligned with your values, they also need to be specific enough to
guide your actions. For example, instead of saying, “I want to be more patient,” you might say, “I intend to pause and take 3 deep breaths before responding when I feel frustrated (and my kids are bouncing off the wall)”.
Keep It Kind
Be gentle with yourself. Remember, no one gets it right every day. Parenting is challenging, and some days don’t go as planned. Intentions are about progress, NOT perfection. Mess up? No problem! You’ll have another chance tomorrow.
Involve Your Family
Make it a family affair. Ask your kids, “What’s something we can work on together this year? You might hear some gems like, “We can all try and listen more” or “Let’s eat more ice cream.” Either way, it’s a win, because this will foster a sense of teamwork and shared purpose.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, intention setting is NOT about fixing yourself or your family. (Spoiler: You’re not broken.) As you set your intentions, remember it’s about showing up with love, some humor, and a whole lot of imperfection. Parenting can be messy, and it’s also full of moments that make it all worthwhile.
Here’s to a year filled with connection, love, laughter, and mindful moments! You’ve got this, even on days it doesn’t feel like it.
What’s one intention you’re setting in the New Year? Share it in the comments or send me a message- I’d love to hear from you!
Warmly,
Andrea
