What Are Intentions
Before we jump into how to set intentions, let’s get clear on what intentions are. Intentions are hopes for how you would like to act. Those actions should align with whatever goals you want to achieve.
Which is better, setting intentions or new year's resolutions?
Resolutions are more focused on the result. An example is “I want to lose weight”.
Intentions are actions you plan to take to reach an end goal.
Intentions allow you to form positive habits and get specific on what you want to accomplish. Resolutions are usually dreams we wish to fulfill but don’t know how to get there.
Materials you will need:
- Journal
- Pen or pencil
- Clear mind
Let's Get Into It. How to Set Intentions
- Consider your why
What is the reason behind the change? What is accomplishing this goal going to do for you? We are more able to set intentions and follow through when we are doing something we love. Make sure your actions align with what you love.
- Think small scale
Don’t try to take huge steps or make big changes all at once. It will only overwhelm you and make you want to give up. Not only is this reading, remember this when feeling overwhelmed, helpful but also not piling on too much. Make your intentions into habits, it will be easier to embody.
Remember, consistency writes habits into your brain.
- Get specific
Write down the habits you want to develop. Studies show writing out goals helps us keep up with them and be more likely to accomplish them. Most habits are hard to keep up at first. That is why it is important to get clear on the why and how.
I intend to [activity] for [time] in [location] at [time of day] every [interval like day, week, or month]
- Let others in
Share your intentions with others. If you prefer to keep them to yourself that’s fine too. If you have someone you trust to share this moment with, do so, and see how they can help. Use this moment as quality time and make it fun
- Celebrate Milestones
One potential drawback to setting intentions and positive habits is they don’t always come with immediate rewards. For me this hard as well. I hate having to delay gratification for the long-term, but it is necessary. Life unfolds in layers and patience is key.
What you can do is give yourself a reward when you accomplish a step towards your goal. Woke up early? Treat yourself to breakfast at your favorite restaurant. Lost 2 lbs? Pat yourself on the back and know that what you are doing is working. You will get there.
Word of advice: Give Yourself Grace
Photo by Samson Katt from Pexels
Conclusion
How to set intentions is easy, keeping them up can be hard. Remember your why, stay consistent, and have patience. If after a while you find that intention isn’t making your life better, it is ok to let that intention go. Organize your life around your intentions. Allow room to grow and expand.
Enjoy the process and what you learn along the way.
As always,
Be You Confidently
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I love the idea of setting intentions vs resolutions! Thank you for sharing a specific way to write the intention with clarity.
Thanking you for reading. Have you set intentions for this year? How are you doing sticking to them?