I say forget New Year’s resolutions. They are one-time statements of intent that our conscious minds invent. The problem is that the conscious mind is not communicating with the subconscious mind – and we all know that if the subconscious mind is not on board with the new program, the whole dang effort is doomed before the ball drops in Times Square!

So as the New Year presents itself, I offer you a little art-making ritual that will help you consciously focus your intentions while gently nudging the subconscious mind along, bringing it into submission for the good of the whole – mind, body, and spirit. As we each set out on our own personal journeys into the New Year, we can use our imaginations to create new and improved versions of our old selves. How, you say? Through art and ritual. Let me explain why these two processes are so well suited to assisting us with change.

Rituals mark transitions and help us evolve when change is needed. (Think weddings and funerals). Self-invented, personal rituals provide the same psychological space. The process of art making can be imbued with meaning and become a right of passage that opens the door for change. As we create art for ourselves, we tap into an inner knowing and produce a visual statement that often surprises and inspires.

If you are serious about change this New Year, mark the psychological shift with a personal ritual. Here, I present an art experience for personal growth. I invite you to create a mini-collage that includes one "focus word" that symbolizes your goal for the New Year. Going forward, the art object provides a tangible, visual reminder of your intention. By placing the art object in a prominent place (your wallet, a nightstand, etc), it keeps the New Year commitment in mind. This is often subconscious, yet wonderfully effective.

A New Year’s Art-making Ritual

Materials: Card stock, cut to desired size; magazines for collage imagery; scissors; glue stick; acrylic paint (optional).

1. Gather materials.

2. Create your space. You may put on music, burn a candle, or place photos nearby.

3. Block out at least one hour of time for this art-making ritual.

4. Center yourself by sitting quietly for several minutes. Concentrate on your breath and let your mind go blank. Invite your intuition to guide you forward.

5. When you are ready, look for your focus word (or rather, let it find you). Choose a word that symbolizes your intention for this coming year.

6. Now look through the magazines to find imagery that visually symbolizes this intention. Use imagery that appeals to you, even if you cannot explain why – (you are working with a higher knowing that is not logical).

7. Cut, arrange, and paste onto your card.

8. If you are feeling really artsy, add a dash of paint here or there for effect (optional).

9. Now that you have your art, sit with it and reflect for a few minutes. Honor it for its wisdom. Ask it to help you move forward. Thank it for giving you focus and encouragement.

10. Important! Keep this art card in a prominent place throughout the year and reflect upon its message often.

This art experience may be done alone or with close friends. Wishing you a blessed New Year.