The Case for Seasonal Intentions

Photo of my bulletin board with a list of intentions

I’ve said it before - I love to set goals and intentions. At the beginning of a new season especially, I like to think about things that will help me get to my bigger goals. But more than that, these things help keep me grounded in the season and appreciate the little things. Plus, when I break things up like this it allows me to see the impact my individual actions have.

This year for my Spring Intentions, I focused on ways I can ensure more time spent in nature and activities that help me live my values. Some things may seem like monotonous chores (like going to Goodwill or recycling clothes), but this supports my commitment to a circular economy. I honor the new season by planting a garden, reminding me that the effort I put in today will result in juicy tomatoes in a few months. This also helps me stay mindful about eating produce that’s in season and express my gratitude for having the space for a garden after a decade spent in a small apartment!

I may not get to all of these this season, although I purposefully keep my seasonal intentions within reach. But having a reminder on my bulletin board every day helps me to check in and keep my life balanced. If I haven’t checked anything off from my adventure list, then I’m reminded to go outside and have some fun. Likewise, if I’m skewing too far toward adventure but haven’t done anything for my community, I can course correct.

The categories are also short and focused. There are 100 other items that I could add to each of these, trust me. But that’s a wishlist. The point of my intentions is to be, dare I say, intentional. At the end of the season, if I find that these didn’t fit I can adjust for the next season.

If you have a list of intentions this Spring or are considering making one, I recommend that you keep things short and sweet. I’ll report back on how this season goes and what surprises come up!


Here they are, my Spring Intentions:

Outside

  • Plant garden

  • Set up patio

  • Clean up yard

At Home

  • Recycle clothes

  • Goodwill - clean out

  • New spring recipes

Adventure

  • Hike: Millcreek and Neff’s canyon

  • Go to Wyoming

  • Finish ski season!

Community

  • One volunteer project

  • Sign up for a soccer league

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How to eat less meat