My five intentions for 2026
Well hello there 2026, I’ve decided to set five intentions for the year in the hope that it makes me stick to them!
I’ve found that I much prefer setting intentions rather than rigid resolutions.
Gentle aims, things to return to when life gets busy (because it always does), and reminders of what actually matters.
With that in mind, here are the five intentions I’m carrying with me into 2026.
My five intentions for 2026
1. Reading little and often
Reading has always been a comfort, a switch-off, a way to create a bit of quiet in a noisy day.
For most of 2025, I was doing really well – reading every single day – until work went into overdrive after the summer holidays and something had to give.
In 2026, I want to get back to it, without the pressure. Even five minutes a day counts.
Screenshot
I’d also love to keep choosing books I wouldn’t usually pick up, stretching my tastes a little and seeing where that leads.
The goal isn’t necessarily numbers, it’s about consistency and joy.
2. Make small changes to look after myself more
This year, I’m focusing less on big overhauls and more on small, sustainable changes that help me feel better day to day.
Nothing dramatic, just gentle tweaks that add up over time.
One of the big swaps I’ve already made is at lunchtime: trading my usual crispy, full-fat Coca-Cola for a sugar-free alternative.
I’ve been experimenting (very scientifically, obviously) with Pepsi Max and now Coke Zero to see which one wins.
Screenshot
For the record, I remain an unconventional gal who really doesn’t like Diet Coke – some things will never change and I’m not completely giving up my beloved full-fat Coke.
I also want to try and eat a little healthier and cut down on some of my sugary snacks, I’ll start this one once all the Christmas chocolate has been eaten!
I’d also love to get outside my comfort zone more – I was hoping to go to a boxing class yesterday but unfortunately it was cancelled and I’ve signed up for a sip and paint event solo.
Small steps, kinder habits, and a bit more care for myself that’s the goal.
3. Seeing friends more often
This one feels important. 2025 slipped by in a blur, and I didn’t see my friends anywhere near as much as I would have liked.
I’ve already got a couple of ticketed things in the diary for 2026, which feels like a good start.
But I also want to remember that it doesn’t always have to be a big plan. A coffee after work. A walk. An hour is better than nothing.
Connection matters, and I want to make more space for it.
4. Moving more (gently)
I bought a walking pad in 2025 with the very best intentions. For a while, it was brilliant.
Then August happened, work went wild, and by November it was buried under parcels and Christmas wrapping.
Screenshot
In 2026, I want to uncover it and actually use it – especially on work-from-home days.
Nothing extreme, just more movement, more steps, more looking after my body while I’m spending so much time at a desk.
Progress over perfection, always.
5. More time for Steve and I
This is something I want to be really intentional about.
Life gets busy, routines take over, and suddenly months have passed without proper time just for us.
In 2026, I’d love more moments as a couple – , a lunch date, dinner date, an activity or even an overnight stay just us two.
I’ve already got something booked as part of Steve’s Christmas present (with childcare heroically covered by my parents), and I want that to set the tone for the year.
Nothing groundbreaking. Nothing flashy. Just five intentions to come back to when things feel hectic.
Here’s to a year of pages read, solo dates, friendships nurtured, and time well spent.
Do you have any goals or intentions for 2026? Let me know in the comments below.
Pin this 👇🏻
Keep in touch
You can also find me on Twitter @rachael_stray
Or follow my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/rachaelstrayblog/
You can see my random pictures on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rachys2011/
And see what I’m pinning on Pinterest https://www.pinterest.co.uk/rachaelstray/
