Hello Lovely Humans,
Most of my readers know that I am definitely a goal-setter, no doubt. I am driven by my goals and I am always thinking about what my next move is. However, lately this mindset has been a little draining for me. You may think “What? Your goals are bring you down?” Well, let me explain!
I just read another blog post on the difference between setting intentions and setting goals. Goals are these solidified items that we strive to accomplish, whereas intentions are an aim or mindset that we can follow, but they’re more flexible. So, how can your goals be killing your vibe?
Well, when we set goals we are creating these commitments to do something, commitments to ourselves. We write them down and promise we will accomplish them by these set dates/times. This practice can sometimes be damaging to our confidence and motivation. Which is why I am sharing this. I have been feeling a little off my game lately and I haven’t been accomplishing all my goals.
When we are unable to accomplish the goals we set for ourselves, it results in a feeling of failure. However, this is not the case. If you really step back and think about your goals, they are just creations you’ve made up for yourself. I’m sure there are a few stakeholders in your life who can be impacted by your goals, but the majority of your goals are most likely set by yourself, for yourself. This is important because think about it this way – if you set a goal to workout 5 days a week but get really busy with school/work and only workout 3 times, did you fail? Is someone going to punish you for that?
The answer is no.
Shit happens. Stuff came up. It’s life!
You’re not a failure for falling short of one of your made up goals that no one else really cares about. (Sorry, harsh but true) Goals can be great and super motivating, as I mentioned in the beginning, I thrive off setting goals. They work as a outline for our lives and push us to where we want to be. However, when you struggle with mental disorders like anxiety and depression, falling behind on your goals can be feel really defeating. It feels like you just can’t win. That’s why we should learn to set intentions too.
Intentions are more flexible versions of goals; they are more of an aim to accomplish something.
When you set intentions, it’s more of a spiritual thing (not religious). It’s like saying a morning mantra or creating words of affirmation. There are no obligations to accomplish anything, but there is intent to being present and purposeful in your daily life.
“Intentions are the fuel to manifesting your goals and visions.”
I came across this quote while writing this post, and it really resonated with me and this topic. As I stated, you don’t have to banish your goals but you do have to change your perspective. The goals are what you want in the future and intentions are like the road map you need to get there. Intentions give you clarity to your goals.
When you set intentions, you want them to be short-term and positive. This will keep your vision clear and your heart full. Also, do not focus on what the outcomes may be. Failure can be very draining and intentions are not meant to be failed. They are simply mantras for your everyday life.
So, as we begin to move into a fresh new season of possibilities and growth, think about setting some intentions for yourself. Keep your goals but be intentional with your daily vision. Manifest positivity and create a life you love through good energy. I’m working on being more intentional and being more positive myself. Everyone has bad days where they fall short of their goals. It’s okay to be inconsistent (you may have noticed this trend on my blog now). Life happens; you have to adjust and keep pushing forward.
Thanks for reading this post today! I hope it is relatable and helpful for you. Sending all the positive energy into the universe today.