This Year I Will by M.J. Ryan

Last updated: Jul 19, 2023

Summary of This Year I Will by M.J. Ryan

1. The Power of Setting Intentions

In "This Year I Will," M.J. Ryan emphasizes the importance of setting intentions as a powerful tool for personal growth and achievement. Intentions are different from goals in that they focus on the present moment and the process rather than the end result. By setting clear intentions, we align our thoughts, emotions, and actions towards what we want to achieve, increasing our chances of success.

Setting intentions helps us clarify our values and priorities, providing a sense of purpose and direction. It allows us to tap into our inner motivation and create a positive mindset, which is crucial for overcoming obstacles and staying committed to our goals. By regularly revisiting and reaffirming our intentions, we reinforce our focus and keep ourselves accountable.

2. Embracing Imperfection

Ryan highlights the importance of embracing imperfection as a key to personal growth and self-acceptance. Often, we set unrealistic expectations for ourselves and strive for perfection, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-criticism. By acknowledging and accepting our imperfections, we free ourselves from the burden of constantly trying to meet impossible standards.

Embracing imperfection allows us to cultivate self-compassion and practice self-care. It encourages us to learn from our mistakes and view them as opportunities for growth rather than failures. By embracing imperfection, we can let go of the fear of judgment and fully embrace our authentic selves, leading to greater happiness and fulfillment.

3. The Power of Small Steps

Ryan emphasizes the power of taking small steps towards our goals rather than waiting for the perfect moment or trying to make significant changes all at once. Small steps are more manageable and less overwhelming, making it easier to stay motivated and committed to our intentions.

By breaking down our goals into smaller, actionable steps, we create a clear roadmap for success. Each small step we take builds momentum and confidence, propelling us forward towards our desired outcome. Additionally, small steps allow us to learn and adjust along the way, increasing our chances of long-term success.

4. Cultivating a Growth Mindset

Ryan emphasizes the importance of cultivating a growth mindset, which is the belief that our abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. A growth mindset allows us to view challenges as opportunities for learning and growth, rather than as setbacks or indications of our limitations.

By adopting a growth mindset, we become more resilient and open to new possibilities. We embrace the idea that failure is not permanent but rather a stepping stone towards success. This mindset encourages us to take risks, push beyond our comfort zones, and continuously strive for improvement.

5. The Power of Self-Reflection

Ryan highlights the importance of self-reflection as a tool for personal growth and self-awareness. Taking the time to reflect on our thoughts, emotions, and actions allows us to gain insights into our patterns, beliefs, and values.

Self-reflection helps us identify areas for improvement and make necessary changes in our lives. It allows us to understand our strengths and weaknesses, enabling us to make better decisions and set more realistic goals. By regularly engaging in self-reflection, we deepen our self-awareness and enhance our personal development.

6. The Role of Accountability

Ryan emphasizes the role of accountability in achieving our goals and intentions. By sharing our intentions with others or finding an accountability partner, we increase our commitment and motivation to follow through.

Accountability provides external support and encouragement, helping us stay on track and overcome obstacles. It also creates a sense of responsibility and ownership over our actions, making it less likely for us to give up or make excuses. By incorporating accountability into our journey, we increase our chances of success and personal growth.

7. The Importance of Self-Care

Ryan emphasizes the importance of self-care as a foundation for personal growth and well-being. Taking care of ourselves physically, emotionally, and mentally is essential for maintaining balance and resilience.

Self-care involves prioritizing activities that nourish and recharge us, such as exercise, rest, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones. By making self-care a non-negotiable part of our routine, we enhance our overall well-being and increase our capacity to pursue our goals and intentions.

8. Celebrating Progress and Success

Ryan highlights the importance of celebrating our progress and success along the way. Often, we focus solely on the end result and overlook the small victories and milestones we achieve.

Celebrating progress and success boosts our motivation and self-confidence. It reinforces the belief that our efforts are paying off and encourages us to keep going. By acknowledging and celebrating our achievements, we cultivate a positive mindset and create a cycle of continuous growth and success.

Related summaries

• This Year I Will by M.J. Ryan
• The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
• Atomic Habits by James Clear
• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
• Mini Habits by Stephen Guise
• The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy
• The Willpower Instinct by Kelly McGonigal
• The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin
• The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
• High Performance Habits by Brendon Burchard
• The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson
• Make Your Bed by William H. McRaven
• The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
• The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
• Essentialism by Greg McKeown
• The One Thing by Gary Keller
• Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
• The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
• The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
• Gorilla Mindset by Mike Cernovich
• The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone