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It’s that time of year when many people are thinking about the new year ahead, full of potential and possibilities. They’re determined that “this will be the year!”
To support these goals in a meaningful way, it helps to understand the importance of intentions and boundaries. Here’s a closer look at these tools and how they work.
Understanding Intentions
Unlike goals, which focus on specific achievements, intentions are guiding principles rooted in your values. They reflect how you want to feel and show up each day, not just what you want to do.
An intention might be to cultivate patience, build deeper connections, practice gratitude, or find time for rest. When you hold an intention like “I want to protect my peace,” you naturally begin to make choices that “protect your peace.”
Intentions are simple statements that act as a compass to guide your actions. They remind you why you’re doing something. They help you align your actions with the life you want to create.
What Are Boundaries?
If intentions describe what you want, boundaries help make it possible. Boundaries are personal guidelines that protect your time, energy, emotional health, and personal space. They define what’s acceptable for you — and what isn’t.
A boundary might look like:
- Not responding to work emails after a certain hour
- Saying “no” when your plate is full
- Asking others not to raise certain topics
- Setting aside uninterrupted time for rest or connection
Boundaries provide structure and serve as guardrails to help you stay on track. They’re a powerful form of self-care. When your energy is protected, you’re able to show up as your best, most grounded self — and give from a place of fullness rather than depletion.
By communicating your boundaries, you help others understand how to interact with you in ways that feel respectful and supportive.
How to Begin
Intentions and boundaries are deeply personal and look different for everyone. These guidelines can help:
- Ask yourself: How do I want to feel this year? What do I want more of? Less of? These answers can guide your intentions. Set a small number of intentions that are meaningful to you, and not overwhelming.
- Ask yourself: What do I need to make these intentions happen? These answers can help you set your boundaries. When you understand your boundaries, you can communicate them clearly, calmly, consistently, and kindly.
If you’d like help exploring your intentions or setting boundaries, AllOne Health is here to help. Services are free, confidential, and available 24/7/365 to you and your family members. To get started, visit Member Support.
