From “Doing” to “Being”: Intentional Living in the New Year
From “Doing” to “Being” Intentional Living in the New Year
The new year often brings a flurry of “doing”new resolutions, ambitious goals, and a relentless push to achieve more. But what if 2026 was the year we shifted our focus from the frantic pace of doing to the profound calm of being?
At Stride Forward Counseling, we believe in the power of intention. This year, we’re inviting you to join us in a simple yet transformative practice: choosing a “Theme of the Week” to guide your actions and anchor your presence.
Why the Shift from “Doing” to “Being” Matters for Your Mental Health
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught in a cycle of constant activity. We measure our worth by our accomplishments, our to-do lists, and our ability to juggle multiple demands. This constant “doing” can lead to:
Burnout: Feeling emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted.
Anxiety: Worrying about what’s next, what’s not done, or what might go wrong.
Disconnection: Losing touch with our inner selves, our values, and the present moment.
Shifting to “being” means cultivating an awareness of how we show up, not just what we achieve. It’s about bringing intention, mindfulness, and presence to our everyday lives.
Introducing Your “Theme of the Week” Practice
This practice is a gentle yet powerful way to integrate mindfulness and intentionality into your week. It’s not another task to add to your list; it’s a lens through which to view your existing activities.
Here’s how to get started:
Choose Your Theme: At the beginning of each week (perhaps Sunday evening or Monday morning), select a single word or short phrase that represents how you want to be that week.
Examples: “Patience,” “Curiosity,” “Presence,” “Kindness,” “Resilience,” “Listen,” “Breathe,” “Acceptance,” “Grace.”
Set Your Intention: Briefly reflect on why you chose that theme. How do you want it to manifest in your interactions, your work, your self-care?
Grounding Through Your Theme: Throughout the week, use your theme as a grounding anchor.
In moments of stress: If you feel overwhelmed, gently bring your theme to mind. (“Okay, I need to choose ‘Patience’ right now.”)
During routines: As you go through daily tasks, reflect on how your theme applies. (“I’m doing the dishes with ‘Presence’ today.”)
Before important interactions: Take a breath and remember your theme. (“Before this meeting, I will embody ‘Active Listening’.”)
End-of-day reflection: Before bed, consider how your theme showed up (or didn’t) that day, without judgment.
The Power of Grounding
Using your “Theme of the Week” for grounding helps to:
Interrupt automatic reactions: Instead of reacting out of habit, you create a pause.
Increase self-awareness: You become more attuned to your thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Cultivate inner calm: By focusing on one intention, you reduce mental clutter and find greater peace.
Reinforce your values: You align your daily experience with what truly matters to you.
Start Your Journey to Intentional Living
This new year, give yourself the gift of conscious living. Experiment with this “Theme of the Week” practice and notice the subtle yet profound shifts it brings. It’s not about being perfect, but about being present.
At Stride Forward Counseling, we’re here to support you on your journey to greater mental wellness and a more intentional life. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, seeking tools for stress management, or exploring deeper self-awareness, our experienced therapists are ready to help.
Ready to explore a more intentional approach to your well-being? Visit www.strideforwardcounseling.com to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment today.
About the Author Rachel Collins
Rachel Collins, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and the founder of Stride Forward Counseling, a premier multi-state group practice based in Maryland and Colorado. As a specialist in high-functioning anxiety, perfectionism, and complex relationship dynamics, Rachel has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between evidence-based clinical science and compassionate, values-driven care. She is an expert in advanced trauma-processing modalities, including Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and is highly trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and the Gottman Method for couples. Through her leadership at Stride Forward, Rachel oversees a diverse team of clinicians and is a vocal advocate for therapist wellness and LGBTQIA+ affirming care.