2021: No Resolutions. New Year’s Intentions

I am so grateful for all the things 2020 has brought me — good and bad. It has been a wild ride. My life has changed for the better in so many ways, mostly because I became a dad.

This year, instead of setting New Year’s resolutions, I’ve been reflecting on everything that has happened in 2020. I have realized several important things — most of those related to being a father — and have changed my outlook on the world in profound ways.

I’ve expanded my ability to be kind despite being exhausted. I’ve grappled with what it truly means to be essential. I’ve learned to give daily thanks for the health of my family and friends. I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the gifts and sacrifices of my parents. I’ve savored the extra time at home making memories with my son. I’ve experienced the pain and mistrust that comes from not communicating my feelings with my wife, then losing my temper and saying things I can’t take back. I’ve deepened my understanding of the value of patience, resilience, and commitment. I have cried over the healing power of prayer and love. And, perhaps, most importantly, I have physically felt the power of media and outside influences to impact my mental well-being and my view of the world.

If 2020 has taught me anything, it is the power and value of my attention.

Everyone, and everything, is competing for my attention. Who, or what, has it completely dictates the way I see the world, how I feel about myself, and the emotional energy I can harness when I get home at night, to better the lives of my family and myself.

My attention is precious and powerful. The technologies and culture of the modern world want my attention. They want to control it, divide it, and manipulate it. And I am finally accepting how easily my thoughts and behaviors can be altered by what I look at on my screens.

It’s not a New Year’s resolution, but, in 2021, I have resolved to have better control of my attention. To be more intentional with my attention.

Everyone is competing for your attention. Who has control of yours?

Happy 2021!