The new year means resolutions, which in actuality equates to overcrowded gyms for the month of January. We live in a society that is obsessed with doing more, achieving more and posting more. Though our feeds are full of accomplishments, our souls are left dissatisfied by the lack of true success.

In 2018, challenge yourself to live a life worth remembering. One where satisfaction does not stem from reaching a certain number of likes on an Instagram post or losing ten pounds in a month. Whatever your goals may be for 2018, know that is impossible for them to be fulfilled without simultaneously constructing intentions.

By constantly goal setting we are focusing on the outcome of a given situation, the desired end result. Goals are futuristic, but to reach any end there first must be a beginning.

That's what having an intention is. It is an energetic starting point, the purest form of a goal. The fetus, the seed, the beginning. It's easy to create a goal, but good things do not come easily. Only with much real thought and analysis will you be able to uncover what your true intentions are.

So how do we live by intentions? To start, intentions are lived daily and are independent of the end goal. They require us to work in the present moment. I read a metaphor that effectively described this idea:

Imagine you decide to climb a beautiful mountain. Your goal is to reach the top of the summit, where extraordinary views await you. However, before your hike begins you also decide to set intentions.

You intend to be present to the sights, sounds and smells of the trail. You intend to notice each interesting plant and the mark your footprint leaves on the soil. With this in mind, you begin your hike. But soon treacherous rain prevents you from continuing and you are forced to return home. You were unable to reach your goal.

But, instead of feeling resentment and disdain you are at peace. You have fulfilled your present intentions and were able to learn innumerable things about the hiking trail, all of which would not have been possible had your eyes only been on the summit.

Intentions cannot be crossed off like a to-do list. They are limitless and require you to channel your innermost feelings. They require you to practice self-love by reflecting and honoring your own worth.

By consciously recognizing and living your values, you are achieving your intentions every day.

How could you possible resort to New Year’s resolutions, when you have the power and capability of being your best you with intentions?