Hi There,
As another year draws to a close, the familiar buzz of New Year’s resolutions fills the air. But let’s be honest — how often do these resolutions actually stick? Many of us begin January filled with determination, only to see our goals fizzle out within weeks.
In a recent episode of The Sage and The Skeptic podcast, Andrew Keating interviewed Manna Abraham, exploring why this happens and how we can move beyond fleeting resolutions to embrace a lifestyle of intentional living.
Listen to the full interview: The Sage and the Skeptic on Spotify
Why Resolutions Often Fail
New Year’s resolutions are tied to the concept of time — a new year, a fresh start. But meaningful change doesn’t wait for January 1st. Real transformation begins when you decide to act.
As Manna Abraham, our Sage, aptly put it:
“Your goals don’t begin on a particular date. They begin when you make decisions.”
The key is recognizing that the need for change arises naturally. Waiting for the calendar to reset only delays the process and builds unnecessary pressure.
The Three Stages of Change
Change is not a single event — it’s a process that unfolds in three key stages:
- The Lag of Realization
You sense something is out of alignment, but it takes time to fully acknowledge this feeling. - The Decision to Act
Once you realize the need for change, fear or uncertainty may delay your decision to move forward. - Taking the First Step
The hardest part is beginning. Even with clarity, taking action requires courage and determination.
Recognizing the Signs of Change
- Boredom: Feeling uninspired by your current routines, job, or relationships.
- Curiosity: A growing interest in new opportunities or ideas.
- Resistance: Recognizing compulsion or obligation driving your actions rather than genuine desire.
These signs indicate that your identity or values have shifted, and it’s time to reevaluate your direction.
The Power of Stillness
Intentional living starts with stillness. Taking time each day to simply be with yourself allows you to reconnect with your inner world.
“Spend five minutes in silence, doing nothing. Just breathe and observe your thoughts. This simple practice builds clarity and empowers you to face life’s unexpected challenges.”
— Manna Abraham
While the modern world glorifies busyness, moments of silence are vital for self-awareness and empowerment.
Decluttering Your Life and Identity
To live intentionally, you must let go of outdated habits, beliefs, and possessions that no longer serve you.
Manna shared a relatable analogy:
“It’s like holding onto a printer in your office when you no longer print anything. Decluttering starts with assessing what’s truly essential for who you are today.”
This practice isn’t just about physical decluttering — it’s about reassessing the values and identities you hold onto, ensuring they align with your current self.
Intentional Living vs. Goal Setting
Traditional goals often focus on achieving external results — losing weight, earning more money, or gaining recognition. Intentional living, however, prioritizes alignment with your values and purpose.
For example, rather than setting a goal to climb a mountain, ask yourself why it matters. Is it about the climb, or is it about finding freedom from a past trauma or identity?
When our goals are tied to outdated identities or unclear intentions, they fail to fulfill long-term.
Steps to Begin Intentional Living
- Embrace Silence: Spend 5–10 minutes daily in stillness to connect with your inner self.
- Reassess Your Values: Reflect on how your identity has evolved and ensure your goals align with your current self.
- Declutter: Let go of obligations, possessions, and habits that no longer serve you.
- Live by Intention: Direct your energy toward what truly matters to you, rather than chasing societal expectations.
Conclusion
The journey to intentional living begins not on January 1st, but the moment you decide to align your actions with your values. By embracing stillness, reassessing your identity, and letting go of what no longer serves you, you can live an empowered and purposeful life — on your own terms.
So, as the new year approaches, let go of resolutions. Instead, choose clarity, intention, and the courage to shape your future your way.
External Resources
Listen to the full interview: The Sage and the Skeptic on Spotify
Build a foundation of Silence: Click this link for 30 days of free access
Learn to live intentionally: Free Monthly Live Sessions
Image courtesy : Photo by Ashley Rich on Unsplash