NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS INTENTIONS

“New year, new me!”- I’ve seen that caption on many Instagram posts in New Years’ past. The month of January brings a new year and a new motivation to be our best selves. Gyms are packed with new members, cupboards are restocked with healthy foods, and we’ve bought the most expensive planner from Indigo because this is the year we stop procrastinating.

I’m all for self-improvement and new challenges, but I still find a problem with the statement “new year, new me.” It implies that who we were last year wasn’t good enough - that we must forget what was and become an entirely new person. But there’s nothing wrong with who you were last year. That person got you to where you are right now, no matter the circumstance. And that is something to be celebrated. So as we look towards a new year of unknowns and possibilities, I encourage you to treasure your whole self: your past, your present, and who you will be.

We all know a common custom at this time of year is to make a new year’s resolution and that it’s also common for us to forget these life-changing decisions by March of the same year.

Some common resolutions might ring a bell: Go to the gym every day, cut out sugar, read a book a week.

In theory, these are all great ideas, but are they attainable or sustainable? Instead of making mountainous resolutions this month, why don’t we make some new year’s intentions? Intentions are a lot less intimidating and can promote positive habit formation. Making habitual change – rather than radical life detours – allows us to incorporate our intentions and resolutions into our current lifestyle, which is much easier to attain and sustain.

So as we ring in the new year this month, let’s make 2022 the year of international focus and activity that leads us to practice the self-love and kindness we all deserve.

If you're having trouble getting started on your 2022 Intentions List, here are a few ideas. Each 2022 intention is paired with a QFIN recommended product to help you (or motivate you!) to accomplish your goals. Happy New Year!


QFIN 2022 Intentions List

Intention #1: Get Active

Exercise and losing weight are often found at the top of many new year’s resolution lists. Instead of committing to hitting the gym six days a week, let’s intend to get active and find joy in movement this year. Whether it’s yoga, lifting weights, or going for a walk, find a way that you love to move your body. Physical activity has numerous benefits for our minds and bodies. This matching set from Set Active will have you looking your best as you break a sweat. Flattering and functional, the LUXFORM fabric allows for a next-level workout. Sometimes just putting on cute athleisure is enough to motivate us to get moving.

Set Active Matching Workout Set

Intention #2: Feel good in your own skin

When we feel good, we exude confidence and take on any challenge. This year, make the intention to feel at home in your skin, literally. Show yourself some love by perfecting your skincare regime. Indulge in some skin food products that will keep you glowing all year long. Try out the Youth to the People SuperBerry Dream Mask for ultra hydration and a bright complexion on any skin type.

Youth to the People SuperBerry Hydrate and Glow Dream Mask

Intention #3: Make time for you

A new year can be busy and chaotic. Amidst your hectic January schedule, it can be hard to set time aside for yourself. When we relax and do the things we love, we have time to recharge. You want to show up as your best self for all of your commitments – and you can do this by carving out some me-time. There’s no better way to chill than by slipping into a cozy sweatsuit. Two of my favourites are the Aritzia TNA sweatsuit and the Alo Accolade sweat set.

Alo Accolade sweat set

Intention #4: Eat high vibe foods

What do I mean by high vibe foods, you ask? I mean any food that makes you feel warm, energized, and fueled. We often make resolutions to cut out certain food groups or eat healthy, but healthy looks different for everyone. By intending to eat foods that make us feel good, we can remain in tune and balance our bodies as they carry us through life. Verb Energy bars are a great way to get a healthy snack in - especially when you’re on the go. Verb is a gluten-free and vegan energy bar company with over ten flavours, so you're sure to find one you love. My favourite is the cinnamon roll!

Verb Energy Bar

Intention #5: Break up with procrastination

Why put off becoming the person you want to be? I’m sure we’re all guilty of procrastinating, but let’s try to ditch the bad habit this year. Why does something later when you can seize the moment now? Intend to make things happen this year by using a planning app such as Notion. The notion is an online agenda software that keeps all of your tasks and events in one place, helping you beat procrastination and stay on track.

Notion the All-In-One Workspace - https://www.notion.so/

Intention #6: Make some good first impressions

Maybe this year, you want to make a career change, meet some new friends, or impress your professors. No matter what your new year has in store, intend to make some unforgettable impressions on everyone you encounter. Dress for success and put together some power fits to make you look as confident as you feel. This year, put your best foot forward by choosing a statement piece like the Vagabond Jillian Loafer. I’ve loved the loafers trend, and this pair will take your feet wherever your year leads you.

Vagabond Jillian Loafer

Logan Ramsay