Entrepreneurs understand the value and necessity of setting goals, but I wonder how many set intentions?
What’s the difference?
Goal-setting helps us to see the future, understand what we want, create a plan, and stay on track to get it done.
Sounds terrific, but there is a downside to goal setting. It takes us out of the moment and creates an emphasis on what we don’t have. For those who set goals and sometimes fail to achieve them, the act of goal setting can lead to a sense of not only failing but of being a failure.
Setting and living your intentions allows you to focus on who you are in the moment, to recognize and live your values, and to raise your emotional energy, which in turn raises your physical energy. Intentions give you clarity and purpose, as well as the inspiration and motivation to achieve your purpose. The practice of setting daily intentions can change your life.
I give intention to just about everything I do throughout each day, from my work with clients to getting behind the wheel of my car and arriving at my destination safely and without incident. There are no rules around setting intentions, but here are the benefits, guidelines, and reminders that work best for me.
My intention is to share this information so those meant to benefit will find their way to it.
Intentions have no limits.
By now, we all recognize and accept that human consciousness affects everything, from the molecular structure of water to the well-being of humankind. Think about this: Your body is 90 percent water. Dr. Masaru Emoto proved that water could be influenced by intention and thought. Imagine the changes that can take place within your body as you begin to give intention to your actions and choices. And it doesn’t stop with you since your energy has an impact on those around you.
Intentions are expansive.
Intentions aren’t to be confused with goals: They are about whom you wish to be, what you wish to contribute to the world, and how you choose to touch the lives of others.
Example: “I intend to show acts of kindness today, opening myself to any opportunity to bring joy into the life of another.”
Setting intentions can make you more productive.
While you can set an intention to be productive, you’ll find more power in stating an intention to open your mind and heart to the thinking that will result in higher productivity and other desirable states.
Example: “I intend to be receptive to clarity, inspiration, and any information that will guide me toward my goals.”
Setting intentions will help you to get out of your head.
Voicing intentions will take your mind off of your problems and perceived limitations. Instead, it will place your focus on something that will have a positive impact on your life. Clearly stating how you intend to feel today instead of wishing that you felt better puts the power of change in your own hands.
Example: “I intend to live in gratitude for all that I have and all that I am, allowing joy and love to fill my heart and positive energy to fill my body.”
Setting intentions opens your eyes to things you may have otherwise missed.
Are you ever so absorbed in thought that you don’t notice what’s going on around you? Observing the little wonders of the world provides many benefits and can shift your perspective in an instant. For instance, I often work outside in my garden, and I set the intention of maintaining an awareness of my beautiful surroundings. As a result, while I am focused on my work, I remember not to get so lost in it that I neglect to observe and appreciate the very thing I’m outside to enjoy. Every hummingbird, butterfly, and new bloom boosts my energy, enthusiasm, and creativity.
Example: “I intend to expand my focus so that I may enjoy, appreciate, and contribute to the beauty of nature.”
Intentions can include global contributions.
Most of us feel concerned about specific global issues, but sometimes feel powerless to help. Remember the butterfly effect: A small change can result in big differences. Setting an intention to make a difference can open your mind to ideas and opportunities to do so. It may shift your perspective on the impact of even the smallest contribution to your cause. Just saying out loud that you intend to be a part of the change is empowering.
Example: “I intend to remain open and receptive to opportunities for meaningful contribution to (name your concern), and I am grateful for any part that I play in facilitating change.”
Take a few minutes and recite your intentions of the day. I suggest keeping a journal on your experiences with intention so don’t overlook the positive results.