Take a moment to reflect on your actions over the last week. Each action you have taken, whether you are aware of it or not, has an intention behind it. An intention doesn't represent the action itself but it can represent the why behind the way you approached situations.
Consider this: think about a time when you entered a situation from a place of love or joy and then conversely, from a place of doubt or anger. The difference is apparent - you can almost feel it in your body and in your mindset.
That's why we're leaning into the power of intention. Keep reading to learn more about why intention matters.
What exactly is an intention?
Very simply, an intention is something you aim or strive to do. But we believe in going one level deeper into the how behind it.
According to meditation expert, Kelsey Petal, "an intention is activating a part of your receptivity. If you were to go out in the day, and not have set any intention or created any type of prayer or manifestation of how you want the day to go, then you're getting on a bike with no direction. This can be great sometimes because you're allowing fate to happen to you, but if you know that you want to get somewhere, the power of setting an intention is going to help you get there."
Your intention is a state of mind, a way of living, that aligns with your personal values and belief systems.
Why are intentions important?
Intentions, how we set out to show up and approach each situation, can greatly impact our lives. They can shift our perspectives, inform what we do, and change the way we interact with others.
Intentions can be a cause (the why) that has major effects on your life. Really beautiful things can unfold when you have an intention leading you. Intentions act as guiding principles that help you navigate through life and can define your character.
Simple intentions to try
Try on setting an intention that is inline with how you want to feel or how you want others to feel in your presence. You can begin with some "I am" statements like the following:
- I choose to show up with compassion
- I pause before I react
- I lead with love first
- I am open minded and open hearted
- I am confident in who I am at all times