The Momma Clan

Every year ends the same way. We look at the calendar, sigh a little, and promise ourselves that this year will be different. We write lists – lose weight, read more books, wake up early, save money, be kinder, be happier. For a few weeks, sometimes even days, these resolutions feel hopeful. But somewhere between busy routines, emotional setbacks, and the weight of expectations, most of them quietly fade away.

As 2026 unfolds, perhaps it is time to ask ourselves a different question – do we really need resolutions, or do we need intention?

A resolution often comes with pressure. It feels official, rigid, and demanding. It sounds like a rule we must not break. An intention, on the other hand, is softer. It is personal. It is rooted in awareness rather than perfection. Intentions don’t shout; they whisper and gently guide.

Intent is about how we choose to live, not just what we aim to achieve.

In 2026, choosing intent over resolution could mean waking up each day with awareness rather than guilt. Instead of saying, “I must be productive today,” we might say, “I intend to show up honestly.” That one shift changes everything. Productivity then becomes an outcome, not a burden.

Intent allows room for humanity. Life does not move in straight lines. There will be days when motivation disappears, plans collapse, and emotions feel heavier than expected. Resolutions often fail because they leave no space for such realities. Intentions accept them.

For instance, rather than resolving to never take a break, an intention might be to respect my limits. Rather than promising to always stay strong, we may intend to listen to our feelings without judgment. These intentions grow with us; they do not punish us when we stumble.

2026 does not need dramatic transformations. It does not need perfectly planned routines or aesthetic vision boards. What it needs is honesty. If this year has taught us anything, it is that external plans can collapse without warning. But our inner compass – our intent – can still guide us through uncertainty.

Intent is deeply connected to values. When we move with intention, we act in alignment with what truly matters to us, not what social media trends demand. Success then stops being a comparison and starts becoming contentment.

Intent also changes how we treat others. When our intention is kindness, patience naturally follows. When our intention is growth, we stop fearing failure. When our intention is presence, we start truly listening – to people and to ourselves.

Unlike resolutions that expire, intentions evolve. They change shape as we do. They remain relevant even when circumstances shift. And perhaps most importantly, intentions forgive us. They remind us that slipping does not mean stopping.

As 2026 progresses, the calendar will continue to turn pages regardless of our plans. Days will be messy, joyful, exhausting, surprising – just like always. The question is not whether we will stick to a list, but whether we will remain connected to ourselves.

So instead of asking, What should I fix this year? Maybe we ask, How do I wish to feel and grow? Instead of focusing on achievements, we focus on alignment. Instead of rigid promises, we choose gentle, steady intent.

Because a year guided by intention may not look perfect – but it will feel real.

And perhaps, that is the kind of year worth living.

-Arwa Saifi