Welcome 2026: Intentions, Reflection, and Wellness
Happy New Year!
As we officially step into 2026, it’s a natural time to reflect on 2025—what we learned, what we let go of, and what we’re grateful for. Many of the posts I’ve read this past week focused on reflection and gratitude, along with setting intentions for the year ahead.
Several years ago, I became more intentional about setting goals, and I realized that understanding the “why” behind them is just as important as the goal itself. When goals are set without a clear vision or purpose, they tend to feel optional, easy to postpone, easy to abandon, and are rarely taken seriously.
Without a meaningful reason, a goal can turn into something we talk about rather than something we actively work toward. In fact, research shows that as many as 80% of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions by February, because the goal didn't have a clear purpose or plan in the first place.
When goals are rooted in a clear why, like what you want your life to feel like, what you’re working toward, or who you want to become, they carry weight. That purpose is what creates follow-through, even when motivation fades.
Resolutions vs. Intentions
As we think about goals for the new year, it’s helpful to understand the difference between resolutions and intentions because while both serve a purpose, they work in very different ways.
Resolutions are targeted goals with specific outcomes and deadlines. They focus on what you want to achieve and by when, such as “I want to save $5,000 by June” or “I want to pay for my semester of college in cash.”
Intentions, on the other hand, are mindset-driven and centered around habits and guiding principles. An example might be, “I plan to set better boundaries and not overcommit myself,” or “I want to let go of negative energy and create more space for what truly serves me.”
The key difference? Intentions tend to stick longer. While resolutions define the destination, intentions shape the behaviors and mindset that help you get there, focusing on sustaining progress well beyond a single number or date.
Communication & Boundaries
Part of setting intentions is communication. Sharing your intentions and boundaries with friends and family can be a game-changer when it comes to staying on track with your goals.
What this can look like in real life:
• Declining plans without guilt: “I’m keeping my evenings low-key this month so I can rest and reset.”
• Setting financial boundaries: “I’m skipping a few dinners out right now because I’m saving to pay down my car loan balance.”
• Protecting your time: “I’m being more intentional with my schedule this year, so I’m saying no to things that don’t align.”
• Choosing experiences intentionally: “I’m budgeting for a trip later this year, so I’m prioritizing that over smaller, last-minute spending.”
These open conversations reduce stress, eliminate guesswork, and help your loved ones understand the ‘why’ behind your choices, ultimately making it easier to stay aligned with your intentions without feeling isolated or unsupported.
Listen to the Podcast 🎧
If any of this resonates with you, I dive deeper on the podcast, where I share real-life experiences, practical tips, and discuss topics that help you create a healthy hustle. Because, let’s be real, a healthy hustle is the secret sauce to staying happy.
New episodes are live now:
The Hidden Cost of Hustle: Choosing Wellbeing Over Burnout
Rebuilding Yourself: The Truth About Change, Happiness, and Letting Go of Survival
Joy Over Stress: Choosing Intention This Holiday Season
Stepping Into 2026 ✨
As we move into the new year, remember: goals without purpose are just ideas, but goals with intention become action. Take small, thoughtful steps as you set your intentions, communicate them, and focus on what truly matters.
Here’s to a 2026 filled with clarity, purpose, and a healthy hustle that fuels you!
Happy New Year!
Melanie