Living with Intention

The beginning of a new year is when many people commit to making positive changes for the next twelve months. Sadly, those lofty promises often fizzle out in just a few weeks. Despite our noble intentions, our objectives may simply be unrealistic or out of our reach. Instead, if we focus on taking small steps toward our ultimate goal -- steps we can truly achieve -- it's possible we'll actually get to the finish line, or at least be a whole lot closer to it.

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So what's the secret to accomplishing what you want? There are four basic keys that can help turn your aspirations into reality:

1. Make resolutions you sincerely want to achieve. If you feel pressured to do something just because it's somebody else's goal for you, your own motivation will be minimal at best, and you'll be doomed for failure before you even begin.
2. Make resolutions that give you joy along the way. Although it might seem obvious, if you aren't happy in the process, you won't be able to achieve the end result. At some point, probably far sooner than later, you'll give up because you'll be miserable. While a dangling carrot can provide some incentive along the way and keep you going for a little while, being able to dig in and take a bite of it will give you the energy to keep on truckin'.
3. Make resolutions that are good for you. The changes you choose to make in your life should be positive and wholesome -- ones that feed your body and spirit alike -- if you're going to stick with them. Changes that make you feel good are those you're going to want to make and will be happy doing.
4. Make resolutions that fit your values. The more you align your actions with your value system, the more peace and joy you'll have in your life and heart.

When considering the goals you want for the coming year, ask yourself the following questions:

• What can I do to bring more happiness into my life?
• How can I adjust my daily routine to feel better physically?
• What can I add (or remove) from my diet to be healthier?
• What can I add (or remove) from my life to more at peace?
• What can I change to better align my lifestyle with my beliefs?

​If you feel your life has purpose beyond yourself, your vegan goals will be easier to attain. Even more important, if you believe that all life -- including your own -- has intrinsic value, you'll not only be more motivated to take care of your mind and body, you'll also be more committed to achieving what you want and need to bring you peace, comfort, health, and satisfaction.