We have all been there. Setting unrealistic resolutions for January that have no hope in making it an entire month, let alone a year. But setting an intention? Well, that seems more like it. Unlike resolutions, which focus on a specific, measurable goal, intentions delve deeper by concentrating on the reason behind your desires.

Here's how the science backs it up:

• Neuroplasticity: By setting clear intentions and focusing on the desired feelings and values, you create new neural pathways that support your desired behaviors. This rewires your brain for success, making it easier to align your actions with your goals.
• Goal-Directed Behavior: Intentions activate the prefrontal cortex, the brain's executive control center responsible for planning, decision-making, and working memory. This focused activation helps you prioritize actions that align with your intentions, increasing your chances of follow-through.
• Intrinsic Motivation: When your goals are rooted in your values and desires, you tap into intrinsic motivation, the driving force that comes from within. This type of motivation is far more powerful and sustainable than external pressures or rewards.

As you start the next year in your practice, take a moment to set an intention for yourself, and for the families you see. Think about how achieving that goal would make you feel, and how it connects to your values. Set a plan to make it happen more (with lots of forgiveness for the struggle), and off you go. Talk about it with your colleagues ("I'm really trying to appear less rushed in the exam room because I know how meaningful my time is for families. Do any of you have good suggestions?") and your families ("I want to make sure you know we are partners here, so anything you're concerned about concerns me, too.") and see where the magic takes you.