Intention Setting

With the start of a new season, it's a good time to re-evaluate where we are. The end of the year is appraoching and setting intentions will help to ensure we reach the goals we set for 2015.

Merriam-Webster defines an intention as "the thing that you plan to do or achieve: an aim or purpose." Ever hear the expression "Well, the stars were all aligned for that one"? That's what an intention does. Sometimes without one, we stray without meaning or direction. With an intention, the universe's forces align to make even the most difficult thing possible. Your intentions will give you greater control of your life.

Be sure the subconscious and conscious minds are fully aligned. Since the subconscious drives the conscious you can say you want something -- but if the subconscious says "I'm not good enough, I can't do this, I don't deserve it", your goal most likely won't be accomplished.

Here are 5 tips for intention setting:

• Be clear and specific. Sometimes people say things like, "I want more abundance." Well, that's really pretty vague, because abundance can mean many things, from family to money to nature -- so if it's money you want, then say that. If it's relationship and family, say that. Place deadlines, or a time frame, on your goals. • Watch your language! Did you know the word "want," really means "lack?" So never say "I want a new job"-- but, maybe, "I choose to have a new job." Don't use the word "should," either. It makes you sound like a victim. "I hope," just leaves the door open for potential defeat. Better to say, "I will." • Lather, rinse, repeat... Write down your intention, say it and repeat it over and over again. • Look forward, not back. Focus on what your life will look like when the goal is achieved -- and if it helps, create a vision board. • Practice gratitude. Each night write down a couple of things for which you are grateful. Gratitude is one of the best ways to create the abundance consciousness. You'll focus on the source of all those things that came into your life -- and they'll continue to open to you. You'll also remove the ego and get in touch with your spirit. • Be determined. All the time, not just when you've reached your goal. "Though one may seem to have attained success for the moment, one will start to regress the instant one becomes careless and ceases making effort, beginning a slide toward defeat. Those who are continually pressing ahead are genuinely successful," writes Buddhist spiritual leader Daisaku Ikeda.