2020 is coming to an end, and we’ll admit we’re a little relieved. After months of reexamining what we value, how we treat each other, and how we treat ourselves, we’ve reached the light at the end of the tunnel. And now, with the promise of the new year ahead, we’re inspired by the possibility of new stories for ourselves. We’re searching for something deeper, more transformational than the usual New Year’s resolutions. Our attempts in years past have seen mixed results, but many of us feel more determined than ever to create meaningful, lasting change. So, where do we start?
In search of ideas, we learned the Japanese have a New Year’s tradition called kakizome, where they write down their wishes for the new year, sometimes in calligraphy, sometimes as poems, and sometimes just a word. It translates to first writing.
We like to think of this ritual of setting intentions for the year like choosing the title of our next chapter. While resolutions tell us how the story ends, intentions tell us how it begins. They can help us manifest what we want to do and give our lives direction. Most importantly, they’re always grounded in positivity, gratitude, and recognizing your worth in the present. So, instead of saying, “I need to lose 10 pounds so I can find a partner,” you might say, “I will prioritize my health because my life has value.”
Framing your desires and dreams in this way gives you a roadmap for how to live, with your intention as your chosen north star. It brings awareness, and becomes a bug in your ear, reminding you of who you intend to be; so that prioritizing your health isn’t just about how many pounds you lose, but how many glasses of water you drank, or how many hours you played outside with your kids. We’re not talking goals to crush, or targets to hit. These are soul-level commitments you make to yourself. To move forward. For good.
All this month, we’re embracing the spirit of new beginnings, inside and out. From resetting our gut with Japanese superfoods to refreshing our souls with deep breathing exercises, follow along as we discover the art of a new start.
Victoria Tsai
Chief Treasure Hunter