New Year’s resolutions – is it time for a rethink? Rather than over-committing to numerous resolutions you’ll invariably end up breaking, keep it simple and achievable. Pick a word to describe your intent for 2021, for me it’s ‘patience’.

The problem with resolutions is that people tend to overextend themselves and end up feeling deflated and demotivated when they fail to keep resolutions. The other problem, is that resolutions are fixed and inflexible. Given all the uncertainty around the pandemic, it makes sense to keep your goals fluid. Picking a single word or sentiment is easy to remember and focus on. We are all hardwired to want to succeed and keeping it simple maximises you chance of success.

What’s the thing you keep meaning to prioritise, but always end up putting on the backburner? It could be something tangible, like fitness, or it could be broader, such as fostering a sense of gratitude (it sounds obvious, but how many of us get weighed down by everyday stresses?), or saying no more and setting boundaries. The main thing is to focus on intent and steer away from specific goals, which can be hard to achieve and deter you from your purpose.

If you’re not sure where to start, here are some ideas:

• Motivation
• Friendship
• Gratitude
• Relaxation
• Balance
• Health
• Fitness
• Energy
• Kindness
• Boundaries
• Wellbeing
• Nutrition
• Confidence

The aim is to find focus and purpose through your word, with just enough structure and direction for self-improvement, without it becoming another onerous chore. It should empower you, rather than stress you out.