Week 2: Setting Intentions
Setting intentions is a mindful practice that helps you align your mind and body to show up as your best self. It starts with identifying what’s important to you and then focusing on ways to embody your values throughout the day.
Why Set Intentions?
Everyone’s health and wellbeing goals are unique, and your practice should reflect that. Integrating this habit into your life can help:
- Reduce stress and anxiety.
- Support mental resilience.
- Promote a proactive mindset.
- Encourage self-compassion.
Difference between Intentions and Goals
|
Feature |
Goals (External) |
Intentions (Internal) |
|
Focus |
Future results and achievements. |
The present moment and your state of being. |
|
Measurement |
Clear "yes" or "no" (e.g., did I study today?) |
Fluid, felt, and open to interpretation (e.g., do I feel accomplishment today?) |
|
Purpose |
To reach a specific destination. |
To align your actions with your values. |
Ho, L. (2024, July 8). Intentions vs goals: What’s the difference? LifeHack. https://www.lifehack.org/878291/intentions-vs-goals
Practice Anywhere on Campus
You don’t need a special meditation room to set an intention. You can integrate these small "micro-practices" into your daily student routine.
|
Campus Location |
Mindful Action |
Your Intention Focus |
|
Walking to Class |
As you cross the Oval or walk between buildings, choose one word to carry with you. |
Focus, curiosity, or reflection. |
|
In the Library |
Before opening your laptop, write a small intention on a sticky note or your phone’s note app. |
Deep work, patience, or clarity. |
|
At the Gym |
Before your workout, ask yourself: "How do I want to feel after moving my body today?" |
Strength, stress relief, or energy. |
|
At a Cafe / Dining Hall |
While waiting for your coffee or meal, take three deep breaths and center your thoughts. |
Gratitude, presence, or nourishment. |
Tools for Success
Use these resources to deepen your practice and find what works for you.
Reflect & Visualize
- Thought-Provoking Questions: Use these 30 Questions for Powerful Intention Setting to find your "why."
- Vision Boards: Create a physical or digital collage board to visually represent the values you want to embody.
- Deep Dive: Read this Blog on Setting Mindful Intentions from Calm or review a How To Guide from Cleveland Clinic
Guided Meditation
Take five minutes to center yourself with this guided session. It focuses on visualizing your goals with vivid detail [02:02] and feeling the emotions of your success—like joy and confidence—before you even begin your day [02:42].