Every January, there’s a familiar pressure to start again. New goals, new routines, new expectations. The idea that turning the page on the calendar should somehow turn us into more motivated, more disciplined versions of ourselves.
Over the years, I’ve learned that approach doesn’t work for me. Instead of resolutions, I choose a word for the year – something acts as a guide, rather than a set of rules. This year, that word is Intentional.
Not perfect. Just intentional.
What ‘Intentional’ feels right this year
Life looks different now. I’m balancing work, motherhood and the constant background noise that comes with raising a toddler. Some weeks feel energising, and like we’re finally settling into a routine; others feel heavy and chaotic! What I don’t need in January is more pressure to do everything better.
Being intentional for me means choosing what actually supports my life as it is now – not the version of it I think I should be living. It’s about letting go of the all-or-nothing thinking and checking in with myself: does this help me feel good in a way that is sustainable long-term?
That mindset has shaped how I’m approaching movement this year too.
Running with intention, not expectation
Running has been part of my life for a long time (I first completed Couch to 5k in 2012), but my relationship with it has softened. I’m not as interested in chasing personal bests or following structured training plans. Instead, I’m focusing on showing up regularly, even when runs are short, slow or squeezed into busy days.
Saturday parkrun has become more about routine than results. Getting outside, moving my body and starting with a sense of accomplishment – sometimes with the family, and sometimes enjoying a rare bit of headspace to myself.
This is what running with intention looks like for me: consistency over perfection, presence over performance.
Choosing movement that fits real life
Winter movement can be challenging. Wet paths, muddy trails, slippery leaves and dark evenings all add friction, especially on days when motivation is low.
On days when running feels like too much, simply getting outside for a walk still feels like movement that counts. Forest School mornings, weekend wanders or a short loop to the park near home all help me to stay connected to the outdoors without forcing anything.
That’s where practical choices matter. Having footwear that keeps me steady on uneven ground makes winter movement feel accessible rather than daunting. A solid pair of walking boots means I can focus on being outside – not worrying about slipping, soggy feet or having to cut things short. When movement feels easier, it’s far more likely to happen.
Intentional movement as a mum
One of the biggest shifts since becoming a mum has been redefining what ‘counts’ as movement. Not every session needs to involve constantly looking at my watch, and not every outing needs to follow a specific plan.
Sometimes, I barely cover any distance walking while Arthur explores every stick, puddle or insect. Sometimes it’s just about watching him gain confidence outdoors and feeling inspired to slow down myself. Muddy adventures and simple time outside have reinforced that movement doesn’t have to look impressive (or Instagram-able!) to be valuable.
That’s something I want to try and carry through the year – allowing space for movement that fits around family life, rather than trying to force family life around fitness goals. That’s not to say I won’t sign up to races, or make my own goals to aim for, but Arthur is my priority – I only get to be his mum during these years once.
Carry intention beyond January
I don’t want intentional to be a word that only matters at the start of the year. I’m going to try and make sure it shapes decisions as we move through 2026, choosing rest when I need it, choosing movement when it benefits me, and choosing consistency over pressure.
Running will always be part of my life, but right now it doesn’t dominate it. Some weeks may see more miles than others – especially once Spring appears and the sun comes out! But some days, a walk will be more than enough, and right now that’s okay.
Beki x