After all, nothing in the universe exists in a vacuum.
What is an intention?
Put plainly, an intention is a clear plan you set for your life.
Grounded in the present, intentions are often used as both an anchor and guiding post.
Summary
Why you should set intentions.
Setting intentions encourages you to take responsibility for how you experience your life.
“Our mind believes what we tell it,” says Lanolfi.
Of course, life is known for its chaotic and messy moments.
But the more we practice setting intentions, the more in tune with ourselves we become.
Goals vs. intentions.
Intentions and goals are two distinct concepts that often work together.
Intentions are personal commitments rooted in the present, fluid, and more concerned with yourbeing.
Goals are future-oriented and have more to do withdoing.
“Goals seem to be very one-dimensional,” saysTerri Cole, LCSW.
Intentions add some depth.
Think about it this way: When you are in the driver’s seat, goals are your destination.
Intentions are the route you plan to take.
Whether that destination is to be a kinder person or to be a better cook is irrelevant.
The ebb and flow of your intentions are really what matters.
With your intentions set, you’re ready to push your foot on the gas and start driving.
Examples of intentions.
Once your intention is set, it’s time to put it into practice.
Here are some tips to help:
Be clear.
“What you think about, you bring aboutin good and not-so-good ways,” Cole tells mbg.
Positivity is the way to go.
“Activate” your intentions often.
“Find ways to activate your intentions throughout the day,” suggests Landolfi.
There is plenty of time to chip away at that to-do list.
The question is, how do you want to go about it?
Write them down.
Journalingis, hands down, one of the easiest ways topractice self-awareness and self-reflection.
Every time you put pen to paper, you’re channeling your innermost thoughts.
Stay true to yourself.
The best intentions are the ones that feel true to your values and beliefs.
It’s much easier to stick to your intentions when you truly and authentically care about them.
Do the deeper work.
Embarking on deeper inner exploration,like shadow work, can help you set and stick to your intentions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you move an intention to action?
What are good intentions to set daily?
Keep theintentions you set on a day-to-day basisgrounded, realistic, and true to yourself.
Envision how you’d like the day to go, and set intentions that support that vision.
How do you set intentions with crystals?
Start by choosing a crystal you connect with.
(More details on working with crystals here!)
The takeaway.
There is beauty in taking ownership of our lived experiences.
Intention setting is a simple way to do just that.
