Start Your Year More Mindfully and Intentionally

I am a freelancer who works from home, and I have developed many habits that I wish to change. Staying seated for too long, having a disorganized workspace, and spending too much time in front of screens—these are some things I want to change in my routine. I have tried setting goals for the new year, but after a few weeks, I fall back into the same patterns.

This year, I want to try something different. Instead of finding a habit to change or a goal to chase after, I am focusing on shifting my mindset and setting intentions. What are they exactly? Instead of focusing on a singular resolution, intentions encompass a wider scope. They can help clarify your purpose and steer you in that direction. For example, instead of declaring a goal of exercising at least 3x a week, you can set an intention of focusing on your health.

One thing I like about this approach is how it enables kindness towards ourselves. Intentions allow you to change directions if you need to, without having you feel like you've failed or given up on your goals. It also relieves the pressure of expecting certain outcomes and lets you enjoy the journey.

If you aren't sure how to do it, here are some questions to get you started.

1. What do you want to have more time and energy for?

Visualize the kind of person you want to become and think about your values and the things that are important to you. How do you want to show up for yourself, your loved ones, your career, and your community? This will help you choose daily actions that reflect your intention.

2. What went well and what can be improved?

Do an audit of all the things that happened the past year, and evaluate what you'd like to continue doing, what you'd like to stop, and what you can approach differently.

3. What do you want to accomplish?

Write down your goals, no matter how big or small. This is not so you can check them off a list but to see how they align with your vision of yourself. There are times when we set goals because we think we "should" achieve certain things by specific points in our lives, but when we go deeper, they are not what we truly want. Take this as an opportunity to get to know yourself and your priorities better.

4. How can I keep myself on track?

Write affirmations and quotes that inspire you, and create a personal mantra. This will serve as a reminder of the life that you are working toward. Use it as a wallpaper for your devices or keep a printed copy where you can see it constantly.

5. What will you tell yourself on your off days?

Believe that progress is happening even when it doesn't feel like it. List down some soothing strategies for when you feel like you're falling off the wagon, like taking yourself out on a date, doing self-care time at home, cuddling with a pet, or engaging in a creative hobby.

Setting intentions is an approach that takes some getting used to, as it isn't about hitting goalposts. It encourages taking stock of your current situation and envisioning your future. It enriches your days by showing you how it is to live more mindfully. By knowing what's important to you, you weed out distractions and have better focus on the things that truly matter.

Pursue your New Year goals with confidence

When setting your goals for the new year, do so with intention and confidence by adding financial protection to your list of priorities. Being protected through insurance empowers you to make sound decisions and pursue your passions without hesitation. FWD SmartStart and FWD SmartStart Lite insurance plans are excellent options to help you achieve these goals.

Starting at just PHP 1,800/month, FWD SmartStart offers life coverage up to age 100, including accidental death benefits and a waiver of premium for critical illness or total and permanent disability. This plan also allows you to customize your coverage with additional life, critical illness, and hospital cash benefits, ensuring comprehensive protection for you and your loved ones.

For those at the beginning of their careers or serving as breadwinners, FWD SmartStart Lite provides a cost-effective solution starting at PHP 1,200/month. This investment-linked insurance plan includes critical illness and accidental death coverage, along with a waiver of premium to maintain your coverage during serious illness or injury. Both plans offer access to a diverse portfolio of global and local funds, making it easier to grow your investments while staying protected.

With FWD SmartStart or FWD SmartStart Lite, you can start the year financially protected, giving you the freedom to live your life with purpose and confidence.

Get started on your journey by talking to an FWD financial advisor.

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