As we go through our daily routine, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life. Routines are a great shortcut to help the day run smoothly. However, they can also leave us feeling like we’re in a rut or going through the motions. This may lead to low mood, lack of motivation, or the sense that our life lacks fulfillment or purpose. Living more intentionally by focusing our attention toward “how” we want to experience our lives rather than staying on autopilot may be the key to jolting us out of the dreaded “comfort” zone.
So, how can we focus, rather than be distracted by daily obligations? The key is in setting an “intention” which is a statement that guides for our actions, reactions, and describes how we plan to experience ourselves, others, and the world around us.
Here is a simple formula to set an intention:
I will (Intention/plan)
By (Action/how you will do it)
To (Purpose)
Let’s put it together using the example of someone who has set an intention to live more authentically in their daily interactions with others.
Intention Statement
I will…share my authentic self with others, by… expressing my honest thoughts/feelings with others, rather than filtering myself to please others, to… become more accepting of all parts of myself.
An intention can be set daily or weekly and can change as you find new areas of focus. During the day, come back to your original intention statement. Repeat it and make choices that align with your intention plan.
About Carla Sykes:
Carla is a Resident in Counseling at Healthy Minds Therapy, offering collaborative support to help identify your unique vision for mental well-being in key areas like personal development, self-esteem, life goals, and relationships. By exploring the impact of past experiences and personal factors, we’ll create a plan to help you move closer to your meaningful goals.
Using an integrative approach, Carla will help you focus on tackling issues like social anxiety, performance pressure, and perfectionism. Additionally, Carla offers couples counseling. Learn more about Carla HERE.