It’s the time of year when we can reflect on the past year and set goals for the new one! First on our list today: hash out what we want to get out of this year.

Intentions are a bit different than traditional “resolutions” because they allow more room for growth. Remember how disappointed you felt last time you said you wanted to jog every day, and it just didn’t happen? With an intention, you’re making an active choice to choose something new for yourself, instead of forcing yourself to stick to a new plan you aren’t comfortable with yet. The goal: Build up to the things you want to change.

Knowing how to set intentions is a valuable tool for living the life you want to live. So first, it’s important to connect with the elements of your life that are most significant to you. What brings you the greatest joy? What gives you passion and fills you with a sense of purpose? Listen to that inner voice.

Once you have a rough idea, it’s time to write it down. Maybe you enjoy decor, and want to transform your Flex Space into an art studio, or at-home fitness center. Sum that up with “improve my home” or “redecorate,” and then you can write that on your list!

Once you have a list of all your intentions for this year, try and sum everything up into one or two words. Maybe your ideas all revolve around compassion or personal growth. Maybe you want to be more creative. No matter what it is, pinpoint it and keep it in the back of your mind this year.

What are a few intentions you are setting for yourself in the new year? We’d love to hear from you in the comments.