Intention Setting in a New Way

Last year, I heard of this new way of setting an intention for the new year. I, along with some of the Energy Management and Intuitive Development participants, tried it out and we found it to be helpful. It starts on December 21^st, the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year which also marks the return of the light. Each day after Winter Solstice grows longer making it a powerful time of the year. The process goes like this…

On Winter Solstice, think about 10 different intentions or goals for 2026. These can be big or small goals. It may be to learn something new, to travel somewhere, to start a new habit, to practice gratitude, save for some big purchase, start a new hobby, and so on.

Next, write out each one on a different strip of paper. Fold them up and put them in a bowl or some container.

On December 22nd, take one of the strips of paper out of the bowl, do not look at it and then burn it. (Please make sure to do this safely by using an appropriately safe container.) If you are not comfortable burning it then tear it up and throw it away. Again, don’t look at it.

Do this every day until December 31^st. You will be releasing one intention every day until New Year’s Eve when you will have one strip of paper left.

Open that last strip of paper and read it. This is the goal/intention that you have chosen and has chosen you for 2026.

Whether or not you chose to share it is up to you. Some people find it is helpful to contain the energy and not share it or share it with only one or two trusted people. Some people prefer to share it widely to help them with accountability. You get to choose your way.

If you try this practice, leave a comment. I would love to hear how it unfolds for you.

Wishing you fulfilled goals and joy in 2026!