Intention Setting 101: Go Beyond Goals and Start Living On Purpose
My Dearest Humans,
You keep hearing about "setting intentions" and maybe you've wondered, "Is that just another word for setting a goal?"
While goals are about a destination (e.g., I will finish this project), intentions are about how you want to show up on the journey (e.g., I will be focused and present while working on this project).
Intentions are powerful because they ground you in the present moment, shaping your attitude and actions right now. They help you live with more purpose and less autopilot.
1. What Exactly Is an Intention?
An intention is a conscious, active commitment to a quality, state of being, or desired feeling that you want to embody, regardless of the outcome.
Goal: I will lose 10 pounds. (Focus: Future outcome)
Intention: I will be mindful and loving toward my body. (Focus: Present attitude/action)
Goal: I will get a promotion. (Focus: External achievement)
Intention: I will show up with confidence and clarity in my work today. (Focus: Internal state)
Goal: I will finish reading this book. (Focus: The task)
Intention: I will be curious and receptive to new ideas. (Focus: The experience)
The Core Difference: A goal is something you do; an intention is a way you be.
2. How to Set a Powerful Intention
Follow these three simple steps to craft an intention that truly resonates and guides your day.
Step 1: Reflect on What You Need
Before you jump into action, take a moment to pause. Ask yourself:
How do I want to feel today? (Calm, energized, patient, joyful, focused?)
What quality do I need to embody to handle upcoming challenges? (Patience, resilience, clarity, gentle boundary-setting?)
What is one thing I want to remember about my values today? (Connection, honesty, simplicity, kindness?)
Example Reflection: I have a busy day of meetings and could easily feel rushed and stressed. I need to slow down.
Step 2: Write it as a Present-Tense Statement
Your intention should be a statement of who you are or how you will act right now, not a vague wish for the future.
❌ Weak: I hope to be patient today.
✅ Strong: I am patient and breathe deeply before I speak.
✅ Strong: I approach every task with a sense of calm focus.
✅ Strong: I listen with presence and empathy.
Use action verbs and personal pronouns (I am, I choose, I bring, I embody).
Step 3: Connect It to Your Day
A good intention is one you can actually use. Think about where and when you will call your intention to mind.
Intention: I choose to be gentle and kind with myself.
Application: When I notice myself procrastinating or making a mistake, I will repeat my intention instead of criticizing myself.
Start small. Try setting just one intention for your morning, your workday, or even just for your next conversation. By consciously choosing how you want to be, you take back the reins of your inner life.
What intention will you set for your day today? Share it in the comments below!
