Cindy LaFerle's confession, "I usually postpone my good intentions, adding them to a long list of things I plan to do later. Later, when there's more time..." gave me pause. If we are to live purposeful lives, we can't afford to let our good intentions slip through our multitasking fingers, become entangled in our daily routine or languish, while we procrastinate. Writing down our random intentions will help us to access these five keys to fulfilling our good intentions.
Decipher the idea
It is important to know if an intention originates from an authentic place. Sometimes subtle or overt pressure from someone can spark an intention. Other times, an intention is born out of an unhealthy need to be noticed or honoured in some way. As good or noble as an intention may be, its source and aim can be skewed and selfish. We should analyse the intentions that surface and be ready to harness the ones that stem from a point of genuine affection, heartfelt compassion or sincere dutiful commitment to a person, an obligation or cause. An intention can also target our needs, interests and desires, which are just as valid. We might dread being perceived as selfish and self-indulgent, but we owe it to ourselves to pursue an intention that will improve our well-being and development in every area of our lives. ?
Develop its substance.
A good intention can morph into a shallow act or flimsy gesture and not accomplish its full potential or original purpose. Usually, we can backtrack and fix a personal intention gone wrong. However, when an intention that is aimed at someone else falls short and leaves them confused or with hurt feelings, the re-do can be costly in more ways than one. In writing our way through the initial thought, trying to make sense of an intention and its potential, we understand it, expand on it, sharpen the rough edges and give it substance.
Determine its importance and priority.
Unless we label an intention as important, it will slip away in the melee of our everyday lives. Unless we name its level of priority, it will be overshadowed and trampled by unexpected circumstances.
We may write extensively in our journals about the intention in our heads and it may swell and blossom into a myriad of off-shoots. While all the extended ideas may be noble, beneficial and exciting, that broad picture may lack focus and seem overwhelming. It is important therefore, to transfer our intention to a list of important to-do's and give it a spot on our list of priorities. ??
Decide on a deadline.
Without a deadline to implement an intention, procrastination, disinterest and disenchantment can set in. Consequently, our good intention falls by the wayside and dies. We can build momentum, drum up enthusiasm and exert a hint of pressure by setting a deadline to prompt us to take decisive action.
Design a path to its reality.
Some intentions demand a complex plan, while others require a short list of simple tasks. A plan helps us to work smart and fulfil our intentions. Whether we dive in with a few to-do's on a hand-written list or step cautiously with a printed blueprint with a maze of tasks, taking the first step is crucial to making an intention a reality. Our life stories can change from day-to-day. Sometimes, it is our good intentions, with a check mark next to step one, which reassures us that amidst the turmoil and uncertainty, we can proceed with faith, a positive mindset and a heartfelt purpose. ?
Do you have a good intention? Decipher it, ensure it comes from an authentic place, determine its substance, decide on a deadline and design a path to fulfil it. May all your intentions be good and fruitful.