Beyond Resolutions: Setting Your “North Star” for 2026!

“You are perfect just the way you are.”

I’ve always loved the energy that a fresh start brings. There is something about a clean slate that sparks a natural motivation to be my best self—to dream a little bigger and start anew.

However, at the start of this year, I’m trying a different way to channel that energy: intention-setting. Rather than making a list of rigid goals, I’m choosing to focus on a value that is deeply important to me—kindness. While traditional New Year’s resolutions often come from a place of "not being enough," an intention comes from a different place entirely. For me, bringing more kindness into my life is about wanting to cultivate joy and happiness, both for myself and for those around me.

Lately, when I’m faced with a challenging situation, I’ve been asking myself: “How can I respond with kindness in this moment?” Only a few days into the year, I’m already noticing a difference in how I feel toward myself and how I show up in my interactions with others. I appreciate that an intention is flexible; it can adapt as life changes throughout the year. Yet, it still holds me accountable (because, let’s be honest, eating six leftover cookies isn’t exactly the kindest thing I could do for my body today!).

I look at my intention as a guiding North Star rather than a finish line to cross. It isn't a task to complete by February, but a path I hope to follow throughout this year and many more to come.

For me, practicing mindfulness is the best way to pause and reconnect with what matters most. It creates the space I need to actually hear that inner voice of kindness. To help you find your own North Star, I invite you to join me in trying the "One-Thing" Morning Check-In. Before you even get out of bed, simply ask yourself: “What is one small thing I can do to connect with my intention today?” It could be a morning walk, savoring a cup of coffee, snuggling with a pet, or simply sitting in a few minutes of silence before the day begins. These small, intentional choices are the building blocks of a peaceful year.

What word or feeling are you carrying into 2026? I’d love to hear what your North Star looks like this month.

With gratitude,

Gretchen

Be Kind 5 Mindful Coach