We all have different dreams and desires, and we approach our ambitions in different ways. If you know a little something about wellness, you might have heard about setting intentions? There are many benefits of setting intentions, but let’s start by learning what it actually means.
Setting intentions is about stating things that you intend to achieve; it means committing to a journey, through certain actions. Setting intentions is sometimes interpreted as a slightly spiritual act, other times, it’s an act of wellness. The experience is different depending on the person and their belief set. Setting an intention means acknowledging things you’d like to experience and have. It’s about participating in your life, as opposed to just drifting along. Intentions can be for the day, the month, or more long-term intentions for your life.
And, there are many benefits of setting intentions, for example:
- Achieve your desires. Setting intentions allows you to achieve your desires, these achievements might come spiritually, through your actions, or a combination of both.
- Be more mindful. When you set intentions this allows you to focus on the present moment, considering how you intend to shape your actions today.
- Keep you grounded. The practice of setting daily intentions can help to keep you grounded. By focusing on what you’d like to achieve that day, you’re less likely to feel the sense of ‘something lacking’ or missing.
- Helpful to honor your goals. Intention setting allows you to consider your goals, and take action towards these.
But, what is the difference between intentions and goals? Intentions and goals are similar, but there is a slight difference. A goal refers to an outcome you’re going to achieve at a future date. An intention focuses on a theme, helping you to develop alignment in life. It’s useful to think of an intention as an attitude you’re committing to, or a higher aim or purpose.
Setting intentions might sound like a complicated practice, but it really doesn’t have to be. Following these seven steps will help you to make a great start.
1 . Establish the desire
The first step to setting intentions is to establish the desire. Be honest with yourself, ask yourself what it is that you desire? Remember, these desires could be small things that you’re looking to achieve with your day, or intentions for your overall life. Sometimes we go through the motions, not quite knowing what we are looking for. Reflecting on your desires is the first step to working towards a more purposeful life.
2. Make your intentions clear
Once you’ve established what your desires are, you’ll be in a better position to set intentions. Try to make your intentions as clear as possible. To do this it’s useful to think about why you’re setting intentions in the first place? Knowing why you’re looking to set this intention is all part of moving in the right direction.
3. Write them down
Writing your intentions down will help you to remember them, and return to them throughout your day, or month. Once you’ve written down your intentions it’s easier to reflect on your progress. You might write your intentions in a journal, on your phone, or both. It can also be helpful to speak your intentions out loud in the mirror. Doing so is an empowering practice, helping you to really connect with what you want.
4. Challenge negative beliefs
When you’re setting intentions, you’ll need to challenge negative beliefs. Setting intentions is about reaching your full potential and bringing positive energy and achievements into your life. Often when we’re working on positive achievements, self-doubt can come creeping in.
One of your daily intentions might be to ‘prioritize what matters most.’ You might set this intention for the day, and then later, feel like you didn’t achieve it. If you struggle to achieve an intention that’s okay, it’s important not to become self-critical. You can always return to the intention, it’s certainly a process of trial and error.
5. Set goals that help
When you’re setting intentions, it’s useful to break these down into goals. For example, if your intention is to live a healthier lifestyle, it’s important to set specific goals about how you’re going to do this. Your goals might relate to how much exercise you’ll do, limiting certain foods, or learning healthy recipes. Focusing on more specific tasks gives you something solid to aim for, and an easier way of tracking your progress.
6. Review your intentions daily
To make progress with your intentions you should review them daily. You might repeat the same ones each day, or shift them around a little. It’s useful to write down the progress you’ve made, what you’ve found difficult, and general reflections. Reviewing your intentions for the day can help you to stay grounded, reflective, and focused.
7. Ask the universe
Some people see setting intentions as a wellness practice, similar to goal setting. For other people, it’s a magical practice too. When setting intentions, many people like to ask the universe for what they want. Whether it’s a relationship or a personal goal, some believe that the universe can help you to manifest desires.
Focusing on these key steps will help you to make progress with your intentions, desires and goals. The practice is rooted in positive thinking and living purposefully. When you’re honest with yourself about what you want, you’re far more likely to achieve it.