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
Now that you have set your intention, it’s time to take action. This step is all about doing something real. Your behavior is the first outside proof that you are serious. If you want to be more organized, try cleaning your desk for just 10 minutes a day. That small step shows your commitment.
Here are some simple tips to help turn your intention into action:
- Start small. You don’t need to change everything at once. One small step is enough to begin.
- Take action right away. If you wait too long, you might lose your motivation. Do something now.
- Track your efforts. Write down what you did each day. You can use a notebook or a phone app. This helps you stay on track and feel proud of your progress.
Behavior is the bridge between wanting something and making it real. The first step may be tiny, but it’s powerful. Keep it simple, take action, and let that action grow.
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
Starting with an intention is a great first step. It’s like planting a seed. But for that seed to grow, you must take care of it through action, daily habits, and patience. Over time, these small steps shape who you become.
For example, if your intention is to be healthier, it starts with one healthy meal or one walk. When you repeat these actions, they become habits. And when you keep going, those habits become part of your identity. You’re no longer just someone trying to be healthy; you are a healthy person.
To help this process, create a space that reminds you of your goal. Write down your intention. Look at it every day. This keeps you focused and motivated.
So, ask yourself: What do I really want? That’s your intention.
Then ask: What can I do right now to get closer to it?
When you take action again and again, your intention becomes who you are. It becomes your identity. Start small. Keep going. You’re becoming the person you’ve always wanted to be.
Final Words
If life feels too heavy or confusing right now, please remember, you don’t have to handle it all by yourself. There is help, and there is hope. With the right support, you can feel more calm, clear, and in control again.
At Mindfulspace Organising, we believe in taking small, simple steps that make a big difference. Whether you need help organizing your space, your thoughts, or your daily routine, we are here for you. We’ll create easy strategies that fit your lifestyle and help you feel more balanced and peaceful.
You deserve to feel good in your space and in your mind. And you don’t have to wait for the perfect moment to start just start now.
Let’s work together to turn your stress into strength and your clutter into clarity. Contact Mindfulspace Organizing without any hesitation for more updates. We are ready to walk this journey with you, one mindful step at a time.
