Intention Setting
It’s seemed like the latest buzzword in the self care/self love/self development sphere of Instagram: intention. But if it’s new to you it can feel rather confusing. What’s the point of all this “intention setting” anyway? Don’t I do enough with my goals?
Sure. But intentions can be a powerful tool if you buy into them. This post gives you the knitty gritty on Intentions and how to get started.
It helps to remember that, just like all mindfulness practices, there’s no “right” way to do this. So just have fun and roll with it.
What is an “Intention”?
There’s a reason all this “intention setting” feels woowoo and unspecific. That’s because it is! Intentions are like goal statements; but they’re so much more. Intentions are the guiding light behind your goal. They’re tied to your “why” and are more like a purpose.
Let’s go with an example, and I’ll use one of my own. Recently I had a goal to run a Triathalon for the first time in 6 years. If you follow me on Instagram you probably know I have hypermobility Ehlers Danlos Syndrome; a non-life threatening connective tissue disorder (basically my joints hurt and get injured easily). What you might no know is 3 years ago I broke my femur and that just sucked. I thought I wouldn’t run again and worked very hard to get back to the point I am.
My goal was to run the spring Tri again. My intention was to reconnect to my inner badass by proving she wasn’t dead… which ultimately lead me to not only run the race, but to take over 3 minutes off my previous best and do it without any joint pain. Boom. Goal exceeded!
Goals are “what’s”. Intentions are the deepest roots of your why, going all the way to your core.
So why set one?
What, Coach Dar, goals aren’t enough for you?! Maybe not.
How many times have you told yourself that this time is “it” in the face of your goals? You’re going to start that new business or finally get to the gym every day or go to yoga? You’re going to save money or buy a home?
And then fallen short?
And then beaten yourself up about it?
Getting clear on your intention gives you a chance to connect to something deeper in yourself.
Ok, I’m convinced. But How!?
So glad you asked!
Intention setting can be very simple, or you can make it more complex. It’s up to you!
Some people build rituals around their intention setting, while others just journal it. It’s really up to you.
If you’re just getting started I recommend finding a quiet space for yourself. Make a cup of coffee or tea and start with a short breathing meditation. You can do it on the Headspace or Calm apps if you need some guidance. If you believe in a higher power you can ask for some help along the way. Then, start to think about:
Why do you want to see this change your life?
What will it feel like if you’re successful?
Why are these things important to you?
Whatever the answer to those questions is, ask yourself “why” again. Keep asking until you aren’t sure anymore, so you can really dig into what’s important for you.
Final tip: keep the statement itself as simple as you can. Some examples of my own intentions:
(I’m doing this to) Learn everything I can without judgement
Not take someone else’s problems personally
Do what’s healthy and right for my body because I love it
Ok…actual last tip: Check with yourself that it actually sounds like you! Your intention doesn’t have to be formal or special or in “magic woowoo” language. It should be authentically, 100% YOU.