Last year I gave up setting New Year’s resolutions and switched instead to intentions. Intentions to me are bite-sized resolutions. They are less filling, I can set them anytime I want, and – the part I like the best –  I get to send them out into the universe like a dream.

As the acting poster gal for setting intentions, I’ll always be a huge fan of them, but this year I’m shifting gears and moving on to mantras. In 2013, instead of setting resolutions and new intentions, I am going to focus on living my life according to the following three mantras:

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1.

Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become character.
Watch your character; for it becomes your destiny.
-Lao Tzu

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2.

Lokah Samastah Sukinoh Bhavantu

May all beings everywhere be happy and free.

And may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life,

contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.

[youtube]http://youtu.be/usJl7oiZPnc[/youtube]

Love this version of Lokah Samastah Sukinoh Bhavantu 

performed by Deva Premal & Miten

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3.

Talking about our problems is our greatest addiction.

Break the habit!

Talk about your JOYS! – Rita Schiano

 

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You may think I’m taking the word mantra loosely in that these are not all Sanskrit, and I won’t always be chanting or singing them, but to me they are powerful words that bear repeating in order to keep me on my spiritual path this year.

Watching my thoughts, words, and actions and knowing that all three have powerful consequences?

Focusing on joy instead of problems?

This is not going to be easy, but I’m ready for the challenge.

Wishing you peace and joy in 2013. Om shanti, shanti, shanti. Peace, Peace, Peace.

What are your 2013 mantras?