All the Best Intentions

February 24, 2021 By Angela Baker, JD, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, CLTC, CASL®
Angela Baker, JD, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, CLTC, CASL® West Financial Services

This year I did not make any New Year’s resolutions. None. Instead, I have set an intention for myself. I’ve chosen ONE word to inspire me during 2021 and it is “consistency.”

Why an intention and not a resolution? Well, a resolution is firm and focused on change, but usually it involves something we feel we’ve failed at or that we dislike about ourselves. So, if we don’t succeed, we can feel even worse about ourselves than before we made the resolution.

Intention, on the other hand, is a commitment to align our actions with our goals, values, and purpose. 

So, why did I choose the word “consistency” as my intention? Consistency, according to Merriam-Webster, means “marked by harmony, regularity, or steady continuity: free from variation or contradiction.” It is further defined as “showing steady conformity to character, profession, belief, or custom.” 

My greatest accomplishments in life, both personally and professionally, have been when I have demonstrated consistency in my efforts. Whether this consistency involved studying daily to pass an exam, or eating right and exercising daily in preparation for a competition, I realize the key to reaching any goal I set for myself is grounded in the intention of consistency. 

Sonia Brill, LCSW, writes that to set an intention you should, “quiet your mind by going inward through breath work and meditation. Give yourself permission to explore:

  • What is your intention for yourself?
  • What is your intention for your family and friends?
  • What is your intention for the type of world you want to live in?”

What would be one word to define your intention for 2021? What will you gain by living your intention? Perhaps a renewed sense of confidence, better health, peace of mind, financial security. 

What would you like to see manifested in your life this year as the result of this intention? Perhaps you want to learn a new language, practice yoga regularly, get your finances organized, be more charitable, plan your retirement, start a new business, or begin anew after the loss of a spouse or end of a relationship.

Remember, an intention is unlike a resolution. There is no pass/fail. Setting an intention for yourself does not mean you’re on your own. Seek out those who can support you and help you succeed in fulfilling your intention. Maybe this is a teacher, coach or professional advisor.

The beginning of each year provides an opportunity for us to reflect, reset and reorient ourselves in light of our values and our long-terms goals and objectives.

Those of us here at West Financial Services are not here to teach you a new language or the proper way to practice yoga, but we are here to support you if your intention for 2021 involves planning for a secure retirement, evaluating your company’s retirement plan, investing to achieve certain specific goals, or planning for financial security.

Reach out to your Relationship Manager if you would like to get your new year started with intention. Wishing you a healthy and successful 2021!

Read the Financial Planning Focus February 2021 »

"New Year: Resolutions Vs Intentions and Goals", speedoflifecoaching.com.

Important Disclosures

  • West Financial Services, Inc. (“WFS”) offers investment advisory services and is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by the SEC nor does it indicate that the firm has attained a particular level of skill or ability. You should carefully read and review all information provided by WFS, including Form ADV Part 1A, Part 2A brochure and all supplements, and Form CRS.
  • Certain information contained herein was derived from third party sources, as indicated, and has not been independently verified. While the information presented herein is believed to be reliable, no representation or warranty is made concerning the accuracy of any information presented. Where such sources include opinions and projections, such opinions and projections should be ascribed only to the applicable third party source and not to WFS.
  • This information is intended to be educational in nature, and not as a recommendation of any particular strategy, approach, product, security, or concept. These materials are not intended as any form of substitute for individualized investment advice.
Categories Financial Planning Focus