New year, new goals: aligning your intentions with your purpose

THE start of a new year offers a meaningful opportunity for reflection, renewal and intentional goal setting. Effective goals keep us focused and motivated, creating space for growth and new experiences. Just as only 10% of an iceberg is visible while 90% remains hidden, our lives are shaped largely by the unseen subconscious. When we align our conscious goals with our deeper attitudes, thoughts and inner awareness, meaningful change becomes possible.

Be purposeful

Begin by understanding the contribution you want to make in alignment with your deeper purpose. Each person has a unique offering to add value to life’s journey. Life is not random – it unfolds as part of the soul’s greater purpose. Aligning with this purpose brings fulfilment and clarity as you set your goals.

Hold an intention

Intention stems from knowing what you want to achieve and why. When the "why" is strong, motivation and enthusiasm arise naturally. Many people struggle to sustain goals because their motivation is unclear. A strong intention becomes the internal fuel that keeps you moving forward.

Have a vision

Clarity of vision allows you to bring your goals into reality. Visualise where you want to be, how you want to feel, and the people you want around you. Tools such as vision boards, journaling, or voice recordings help make your vision real in your mind. Research shows that visualisation activates the same brain regions as performing a task, strengthening neural pathways and increasing readiness.

Be SMART

Specific: clearly define what you want to achieve. Clarity makes it achievable.

Measurable: track your progress to stay motivated and see growth.

Achievable: set realistic goals. Dream big, but stay practical.

Relevant: ensure it aligns with your purpose, values, and broader objectives.

Time-bound: set deadlines to guide your efforts.

Break it down

Large goals become manageable when divided into smaller, practical steps. This reduces overwhelm and helps you track progress. Even if you stumble along the way, keep moving forward.

Stay Flexible

Remain determined but adaptable. Life changes, and goals may need adjustment. Stay compassionate with yourself and maintain focus on your broader vision, even when circumstances shift.

Celebrate milestones

Recognise and reward yourself for progress. Celebrating small wins reinforces positive habits and keeps you motivated.

Stay accountable

Share your goals with someone you trust or find a mentor. Having someone to check in with can keep you accountable.

Stay positive

Keep a positive mindset, even during setbacks. Focus on progress, not perfection. Nurture yourself with patience and love, as positivity sustains your energy and growth on the journey toward your goals. 

Meditation and mindful practice

Meditation is the practice of taking time to be with ourselves. Aligning your inner awareness of yourself with your sense of purpose, values and vision of yourself. This inner alignment will keep you centred, so that you are able to keep your goals clearly in your consciousness and water the seeds of your intention with attention.

Sister Usha Jevan has devoted over three decades to the study and teaching of Raja yoga meditation under the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University. Jevan serves as the national co-ordinator and director on the national Brahma Kumaris Board; and she views spiritual practice as a transformative journey guided by divine principles.

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