Intention is a current buzzword in the productivity and self-improvement world. But what does it really mean? An intention is an idea that you plan (or intend) to carry out. If you mean something, it’s an intention. Your goal, purpose, or aim is your intention. It’s something you mean to do, whether you pull it off or not.
For example:
- My intention is to become more organized.
- My intention is to close more sales.
- I intend to have financial freedom.
But here’s the catch: Intention is only a word unless we implement action steps to make it a reality.
The late, great Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, refers to setting an intention as “begin with the end in mind.” He means that clearly visualizing and defining your desired outcome or goal before taking action helps ensure you make decisions and take steps that align with that vision. It’s about having a clear destination in mind before starting a project or undertaking any significant endeavor.
The image beautifully illustrates the transformation of an intention into something much deeper—an intrinsic part of who we are. It breaks down the process into six stages:
Let’s break down each of these stages and explore how to move from setting an intention to making it second nature.
Step 1: Intention – The Starting Point
Everything begins with an intention. You have a desire, a goal, or an aspiration. But an intention without action is merely a wish. Many people set intentions at the beginning of the year, in the form of resolutions, but without a solid plan, most of these fall by the wayside within weeks.
How to Strengthen Your Intentions:
- Write it down. Studies show that writing down your intentions makes you more likely to achieve them.
- Be specific. Instead of “I want to be healthier,” try “I intend to exercise for 30 minutes, five days a week.”
- Attach a why. Why is this intention important to you? Tie it to a deep, personal reason.
- Keep your intention in front of you. Whether it’s a vision board, a sticky note on your mirror, or a daily affirmation, reminders keep your focus sharp.
Step 2: Behavior – Taking the First Action
Once you have a clear intention, it’s time to act. Behavior is the first external demonstration of your internal commitment. If your intention is to be more organized, your first behavior might be setting aside 10 minutes each day to tidy up your workspace.
Tips for Turning Intention into Behavior:
- Start small. Don’t aim for a massive overhaul overnight.
- Take immediate action. The longer you wait, the less likely you are to follow through.
- Track your progress. Use a journal or an app to monitor your consistency.
Step 3: Habit – Repetition Creates Routine
A behavior repeated often enough becomes a habit. Research suggests it takes around 66 days on average to form a habit, depending on the complexity of the behavior. At this stage, the action requires less conscious effort.
How to Reinforce a Habit:
- Consistency is key. Stick with it, even when motivation fades.
- Pair it with an existing habit. Example: If you want to meditate daily, do it right after brushing your teeth.
- Reward yourself. Positive reinforcement helps solidify new habits.
Step 4: Practice – Deepening Your Commitment
When a habit is practiced intentionally, it strengthens and evolves. This stage is about refining and improving your process.
How to Move from Habit to Practice:
- Increase the challenge. If you’ve been working out three times a week, increase it to four.
- Seek feedback. If your goal is to close more sales, analyze what works and tweak your approach.
- Stay accountable. Join a group, find a mentor, or track your progress publicly.
Step 5: Second Nature – The Shift Happens
At this stage, you no longer have to think about the behavior—it’s automatic. Just like brushing your teeth, the action becomes embedded in your daily routine.
How to Maintain the Momentum:
- Keep refining. Excellence is a moving target.
- Stay flexible. Be willing to adapt your approach.
- Teach others. One of the best ways to solidify a skill is to share it with others.
Step 6: Identity – You Become the Intention
This is where transformation happens. You don’t just do something—you are it. You’re not trying to be an organized person; you are an organized person. You don’t have to remind yourself to exercise—you identify as someone who prioritizes fitness.
How to Sustain Your New Identity:
- Embrace it fully. Own your new identity with confidence.
- Surround yourself with like-minded individuals. Your environment influences your mindset.
- Celebrate your growth. Reflect on how far you’ve come.
- Consciously create a mindful space. Whether it’s a clutter-free desk, a focused morning routine, or an organized calendar, setting up your environment to support your intention increases your chances of success.
From Intention to Identity
Setting an intention is a powerful first step, but the real magic happens when you transform that intention into action, habit, and eventually, identity. Whether your goal is to be more productive, healthier, or financially free, following this natural progression will help make it an intrinsic part of who you are.
By consciously creating a mindful space and keeping your intention in front of you, you set yourself up for greater success in making your intention a reality.
So, what’s your intention today? And more importantly, what action will you take to make it a reality?
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck, know that you don’t have to navigate it alone. Together, we can create tailored strategies to simplify your life, reduce stress, and help you focus on what truly matters. Whether it’s finding clarity through mindfulness or boosting productivity with effective systems, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s work together to transform your challenges into opportunities for growth. Contact me today to take the first step toward a more balanced, intentional, and fulfilling life!
