“Every journey begins with the first step of articulating the intention, and then becoming the intention.” ― Bryant McGill

“Inspiring Intention” is grounded in the idea that when we embody our greatest hopes and dreams, we “plant the seeds for change” in our communities. Showing ourselves self-compassion and acceptance enables us to set clear and positive intentions that lead us closer towards the life we want to be living. Let’s normalize leading purposeful and intentional lives and inspire others to do the same.

Let your heart’s compass guide you through these suggested steps:

1. Carve out time for quiet introspection. Setting aside time for quiet introspection turns our attention away from what’s being asked of us and instead provides us the space to ask what we need for ourselves in the present moment. What is one way that you can find space from the expectations and pressures that we internalize as noisy thoughts and emotions? Is it on a walk? In meditation? Doing art?

2. Have a clear focus on what you want. Once you are in a space where you can focus, tune into yourself, and check in with your core values, examine what matters most to you and what kind of life you want to be living. What direction do you want to be heading from here? 

3. Set specific intentions for where you want to grow. Bring to mind the 7 Roots of Wellness: Intellectual, Financial, Spiritual, Social, Emotional, Environmental, Physical. Identify if there are specific areas you want to grow in or presently address. Which next steps best get you to where you want to go? 

4. Embody intentionality. Carefully examine your identified next steps and notice what external or internal support, if any, is needed. What additional tools, resources, or help do you need to make your journey possible? 

5. Strengthen your self-awareness for times you feel lost. Practices like journaling, meditation, and building self-compassion help us pay close attention to thoughts, feelings, and actions in the present moment. By checking in regularly with our intentions, we are sure to stay the course. What routines and practices support you reaching your long-term goals?

6. Inspire intention: Recognize the stages others are at on their journey, and encourage them to keep moving forward with self-awareness and purpose at the helm. What deliberate action(s) can you take as an individual to help others live more according to their values?

Chart your course with your heart as your compass and your dreams as waypoints. Through deliberate and clear intentions, we not only take care of ourselves and reach our goals, but encourage others in our lives to do the same. Consequently, we can lead a life that is not only intentional, but also inspiring. Together, we can commit to a culture of care that leads to a fuller sense of wellbeing and purpose for all.