“Setting intentions is more than just setting goals — it's about being purposeful in pursuing your desires.”
Life is often busy and stressful, leaving little time for anything extra each morning. However, according to Melissa Maxx, a certified mindfulness coach, this is exactly why setting a daily intention is crucial. Without it, you let your day control your mood instead of taking charge and shaping your day.
Setting intentions is a powerful tool for personal growth and achieving your goals. When you set an intention, you are declaring your desired outcome and focusing your energy on making it a reality.
"Intention setting is empowering," says Maxx. "Instead of feeling like a victim of circumstance, you become the conscious creators of your days and your life."
Why setting of Intentions is important?
Intentions are more than just wishful thinking. They are a conscious decision to direct your energy towards a specific goal or outcome. By setting an intention, you are telling the universe what you want and aligning your actions with your desires. This can lead to greater clarity, focus, and motivation in pursuing your goals.
"When setting an intention, it's like laying the foundation for what you'd like to have, feel, and experience versus just being a passive participant going through the motions," Explains Sara Weand, L.P.C . "Intentions provide you with the opportunity to actively participate in your life the way you want to live it."
How to Set Intentions Correctly:
1. Be specific: Clearly define your intention and make it as specific as possible. Instead of setting a vague intention like "be happy," set a specific intention like "practice gratitude daily to cultivate happiness."
2. Keep it positive: Frame your intentions in a positive light. Instead of focusing on what you don't want, focus on what you do want. For example instead of saying "I don't want to be stressed," say "I intend to cultivate inner peace and calm."
3. Write it down: Put your intention in writing. This helps to solidify your commitment and makes it more tangible. You can write your intention in a journal, on sticky note, or even create a vision board.
4. Visualize: Take a few moments to visualize your intention as if it has already manifested. Engage all your senses and make the visualization as vivid as possible. This helps to create a strong emotional connection to your intention.
5. Take aligned action: Setting an intention is just the first step. To make it a reality, you need to take action that aligns with your intention. Break down your intention into smaller, actionable steps and take consistent action towards your goal.
6. Shift any limiting beliefs: Reframe negative beliefs that hinder your progress. Believing in your ability to achieve your intentions is essential for success.
7. Regularly revisit your intention: Regularly revisit your intention to keep it top of mind. You can set a reminder on your phone, create a daily ritual, or simply take a few moments each day to reconnect with your intention.
Setting intentions is a powerful tool for personal growth and manifestation. By following these simple steps, you can harness the power of intentions to create the life you desire. Remember, the key is to be specific, positive, and consistent in your intention-setting practice. Trust the process and watch as intentions become your reality.
For more reading:
Melissa Maxx: https://www.amaxximizedlife.com/
AnnaMarie Houlis: https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/mental-health/how-to-set-intentions
Sara Weand, LPC, DBT Therapist: https://www.saraweandlpc.com