How to Set New Moon Intentions: A Simple Journaling Guide
The New Moon is the dark, quiet start of the lunar cycle, and many people use it as a monthly reset. Setting intentions at the New Moon is not magic; it is a simple habit that gives you a regular moment to pause and decide what matters. Here is an easy way to do it.
What you need
- A notebook or journal
- Ten to twenty quiet minutes
- Optional: a candle, a cup of tea and some calm music
Step 1: Look back
Before looking forward, spend a few minutes on the month that has passed. What went well? What drained you? What did you learn?
Step 2: Choose a focus
Pick one area of life to focus on this cycle: love, health, work, creativity, friendships or rest. Choosing one keeps your intentions realistic.
Step 3: Write your intentions
Write two or three intentions in the present tense, as if they are already happening. For example: “I make time for a phone-free evening with my partner every week.” Keep them specific and kind, not harsh.
Step 4: Plan one small action
Intentions need action. For each one, write the first tiny step you will take in the next three days.
New Moon journal prompts
- What do I want more of this month?
- What am I ready to begin, even if I start small?
- How do I want to feel when the moon is full?
- What support do I need, and who can I ask?
- What would make this month feel meaningful?
Check in at the Full Moon
About two weeks later, the Full Moon is a natural moment to review. Read what you wrote, celebrate progress and adjust. Then use the waning half of the cycle to let go of what is not working.
Find the next New Moon date on our moon calendar.