Insights 18: Intention and impact

Edition 18:  14 October 2021

Thoughtful quotations:
“When there is harmony between the mind, heart and resolution, then nothing is impossible” Rig Veda
 
“Intentions are like magnets, the more we declare them, believe in them, and act in ways that manifest them, the more real they become” Anonymous
 
“Every action has an impact; choose wisely the impact you want to have” Mindy Hall

Context for reflection:
Intentional living and impact are a powerful leadership combination. Intention without action is meaningless. But living life intentionally makes us question what is important. Getting the full value of Living with Intent, requires actions that lead toward it. It may well require us to reconsider our view of time. If we don’t make time for what is important to us, we let life pass us by. When we live with intent, we share what is meaningful to our selves with others, and then act toward becoming our “intentional self”. The steps can be small, sometimes feel insignificant but one small step each day will have impact, first for you and then for others, who see the change. These steps accumulate to build an intentional self, which knows their truths and seeks to live them authentically.
Living with intent is importantly a mindful process. It is ours to hold dear. It implies quiet leadership, which does not seek to impose or be prescriptive. It allows us to advocates a view, followed by inquiry and listening to others.
There is huge truth in the notion that when we live with intention the opportunity for impact is greater. Where we choose actions that follow our intentional path, the impact is felt. Wonderful are the days when we achieve integration of intention and impact.
To test your intentions and impact consider the driver. Philosopher Bhaktivinido Thakura suggests there are four fundamental motivations:
Fear, Desire, Duty and Love.
Clearly when our intentions are driven by duty and love they have greater sustainability, helping us do the right things for our selves.
 
Activity: Take a sheet of paper and consider what it means for you to live life Intentionally. Brainstorm your thoughts. Ask yourself Why 5 times to find the real reason for each intention. Then consider three new areas for you to have the impact you intend on your world. Share your thoughts with someone close to you. Ask them to help you be more accountable to your self.
 

A few question to contemplate:

• Is your impact felt the way you intend? 

• How could you reignite your intentional self for greater meaning and impact in your world?

 Drafted in all humility as I continue my journey of discovery. It is indeed challenging, with so much to remember and learn.

Andrew Pons

Reference:
Hall, M, Leading with Intention: Every Moment is a Choice, Cooper Bay Press, 2014
Shetty, J, Think like a monk, Thorsons, 2020

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