Here, we unpack what intentions are, what sets them apart from goals or affirmations, and how to harness the power of what it is you intend to do or be, with the help of experts. Grounded in the present, intentions are often used as both an anchor and guiding post. Spiritually speaking, with every intention set, you send a signal to the universe about what you need or want. This is exactly why authenticity is crucial for intention setting—intentions are only powerful if they are true to your values and beliefs. “Our mind believes what we tell it,” says Lanolfi. So, every time we set the intention to cultivate a certain quality, we open up our minds to believing that this is a quality we really can possess. And thanks to the brain’s ability to adapt to our behaviors (hello, neuroplasticity), setting intentions can really work in our favor toward building a better life. Of course, life is known for its chaotic and messy moments. But the more we practice setting intentions, the more in tune with ourselves we become. From there, we’re able to make our next intentions that much more authentic and trust ourselves to navigate the chaos in all areas of our lives. Think of the anxiousness to be quelled and the energy to be saved by consciously choosing to have your own back in this way. “Goals seem to be very one-dimensional,” says Terri Cole, LCSW. Intentions add some depth. They give us a reference point for how we’d like to spend the time in between now and when we actualize our goal or dream. Think about it this way: When you are in the driver’s seat, goals are your destination. Intentions are the route you plan to take. Whether that destination is to be a kinder person or to be a better cook is irrelevant. The ebb and flow of your intentions are really what matters. “Will you achieve all your goals in a spiral of chaos, crawling across the finish line, or will you move forward with grace, confidently completing each task, celebrating your progress, and thoroughly enjoying the journey?” asks Landolfi. With your intentions set, you’re ready to push your foot on the gas and start driving. With a unique view on life, she taps into her own experiences to guide folks to live life for themselves, empowering them to explore their inner wild and find their own way in adulthood. Her weekly newsletter is a tiny way she furthers her mission to hold space for the unfathomable, romantic, and messy parts of life that make it that much more beautiful.
