Episode 76: How to Gain Clarity of Intention

Intro: 

This is Episode 76

Welcome to Wellness in Every Season, the podcast where we explore the rich tapestry of motherhood and wellness in all its forms. I'm your host, Autumn Carter, a certified life coach and parenting coach dedicated to empowering mothers to rediscover their identity beyond motherhood.

Find balance amidst chaos. Strengthen relationships and pursue their dreams. My goal is to help mothers thrive both as individuals and as parents.

[Music]

EPISODE INTRO

Welcome to Episode 76 of "Wellness in Every Season." Today’s episode, titled "How to Gain Clarity of Intention," dives into a powerful and transformative topic. Whether you’re navigating the chaos of motherhood, pursuing personal dreams, or simply seeking a sense of direction, having clear intentions can illuminate your path and help you move forward with purpose.

Clarity of intention means having a clear understanding of what you want to achieve and why it’s important to you. It goes beyond setting goals; it’s about aligning your actions with your deepest values and desires. When you’re clear about your intentions, you can make decisions more confidently and stay focused on what truly matters.

Life can often feel overwhelming, especially for us moms who juggle countless responsibilities. Without clear intentions, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily tasks and lose sight of our bigger picture. Clarity of intention helps us prioritize, reduce stress, and find joy in our everyday actions. It brings a sense of calm and direction, allowing us to live more intentionally and authentically.

Key point #1: 

When it comes to gaining clarity of intention, I've found it to be incredibly helpful in both my personal and professional life. In our family, we use clarity of intention to keep ourselves on track with our parenting goals. These goals are so important to us that we wrote them down. Here are the words we use as guideposts for our four children: Advocate, Explorer, Question Everything, Balanced, Faithful, Resilient, Self-disciplined, and Compassionate. These intentions help us ensure that we are nurturing these qualities in our children every day.

In my coaching practice, clarity of intention is vital. I use it to help my clients stay aligned with their personal and parenting goals. Understanding their "why" is like discovering the heartbeat that fuels their every action. It's the essence that breathes life into their endeavors, shaping every decision and direction they take. Reflecting on the journey that led them to seek coaching, the experiences that ignited their drive, and the values that guide their path provides deep insights into their motivations. This process fosters a strong connection and relatability, ensuring that our coaching sessions are not just about achieving goals but about aligning their actions with their deepest values and desires. 

This alignment brings a sense of purpose and authenticity to everything they do, helping them to navigate challenges and celebrate successes with a clear and focused mind. 

My own journey to becoming a parenting coach stemmed from a realization that I needed more help with one of our children. Despite attending various parenting classes and reading numerous books, I found that these resources didn't fully meet our needs. It was this experience that drove me to seek deeper knowledge and understanding. I wanted to equip myself with the skills and insights necessary to better support my own family and, in turn, help other parents facing similar challenges. 

As I delved into the world of parenting coaching, I discovered the profound impact that clarity of intention could have. Not only did it transform our approach to parenting, but it also illuminated my path as a coach. This clarity helps me guide my clients through their unique journeys, assisting them in uncovering their own intentions and aligning their actions with their core values. This process not only helps them achieve their goals but also fosters a more intentional and fulfilling parenting experience.

Key point #2: 

For others, gaining a clear sense of purpose can be a transformative process that profoundly impacts their lives. When you have a solid understanding of your intentions, it becomes easier to navigate life's challenges and make decisions that align with your core values and long-term goals. This focus provides a sense of direction and purpose, helping you stay motivated even when faced with obstacles. It allows you to prioritize what truly matters, ensuring that your daily actions contribute to your overall sense of fulfillment and well-being.

In a parenting context, knowing your goals helps you define the qualities and values you want to instill in your children. It guides your interactions and decisions, making your parenting more intentional and effective. For instance, if you aim to raise compassionate and resilient children, having clear goals around these qualities helps you create an environment and experiences that nurture these traits. This focused approach not only benefits your children but also strengthens your family bonds, fostering a supportive and nurturing home environment.

In a professional setting, having defined intentions ensures that your actions and decisions are aligned with your business goals and values. It helps you stay on track, maintain your focus, and make strategic decisions that propel you towards your desired outcomes. Whether you are leading a team, running a business, or pursuing personal development, having well-defined goals can enhance your productivity, creativity, and overall success.

A shared sense of purpose with your significant other is equally important. When both partners are clear about their goals for the relationship, it fosters mutual understanding, respect, and support. It helps in setting shared goals, managing expectations, and resolving conflicts constructively. This mutual clarity strengthens the bond between partners, creating a harmonious and fulfilling relationship. It ensures that both individuals are working towards common objectives, enhancing their connection and ensuring that their partnership grows stronger over time.

On the other hand, not having a clear sense of purpose can lead to a range of negative effects. Without well-defined goals, you may find yourself feeling lost, overwhelmed, and directionless. It becomes easy to get caught up in the daily grind, focusing on tasks that may not contribute to your long-term goals or personal fulfillment. This lack of direction can result in feelings of frustration, dissatisfaction, and burnout.

In parenting, lacking clear objectives can lead to inconsistent and reactive behaviors. Without a clear vision of the values and qualities you want to nurture in your children, it becomes challenging to provide consistent guidance and support. This can create confusion and uncertainty for your children, affecting their development and emotional well-being.

Professionally, an absence of clear goals can result in scattered efforts and wasted resources. Without defined intentions, it is difficult to set meaningful goals and make decisions that align with your business objectives. This can lead to missed opportunities, inefficiencies, and a lack of progress towards your desired outcomes.

In relationships, a lack of shared goals can cause misunderstandings, unmet expectations, and conflicts. Without mutual intentions and objectives, partners may struggle to align their efforts and support each other's aspirations. This can lead to feelings of disconnection, resentment, and a weakening of the relationship.

Ultimately, a well-defined sense of purpose acts as a compass, guiding your actions and decisions towards a more intentional, purposeful, and fulfilling life. Whether in parenting, professional pursuits, relationships, or personal development, taking the time to gain clarity on your goals can have a profound and positive impact on all areas of your life.

[Music]

Segment: Mindfulness Practice: 

Let's take a moment to explore a mindfulness practice that will help you set or reset your intentions. This practice will guide you in discovering where you need to focus your intentions and help you understand the intentions of others around you.

Find a quiet place where you can sit comfortably without being disturbed. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth. Allow your body to relax with each breath, letting go of any tension or stress.

Begin by bringing your attention to the present moment. Notice the sensations in your body, the rhythm of your breath, and the sounds around you. Allow yourself to be fully present here and now.

Now, gently shift your focus inward. Ask yourself: "What are my core values? What truly matters to me in my life?" Take a few moments to reflect on these questions. You might think about qualities such as compassion, integrity, growth, or connection. Allow whatever comes to mind to surface without judgment.

Next, consider the different areas of your life where you may need to set or reset your intentions. Think about your personal growth, your relationships, your work, and your health. Ask yourself: "What do I want to achieve in these areas? How do I want to show up for myself and others?"

As you reflect on these questions, allow your mind to explore the intentions that align with your core values. You might find that certain intentions resonate more strongly with you. Trust your intuition and let these intentions come to the forefront of your mind.

Now, think about the people in your life – your family, friends, colleagues, and community. Consider their intentions and how they align or differ from yours. Ask yourself: "What are the intentions of those around me? How can I support them in their goals while staying true to my own?"

Take a moment to visualize yourself living in alignment with your intentions. See yourself acting with purpose and clarity in all areas of your life. Imagine the positive impact this has on your well-being, your relationships, and your overall sense of fulfillment.

As you bring this mindfulness practice to a close, take a few deep breaths and slowly open your eyes. Take a moment to jot down any insights or intentions that came to mind during this practice. These notes will serve as a reminder of the clarity you have gained and guide you as you move forward.

Remember, setting and resetting your intentions is an ongoing process. Regularly revisit this mindfulness practice to stay connected with your core values and ensure that your actions align with your deepest desires. By doing so, you'll create a life that is intentional, purposeful, and deeply fulfilling.

[Music]

Key point #3: 

Now that you've explored and set your intentions in our mindfulness practice, let's discuss how to integrate them into your daily life. It's one thing to have clear intentions, but making them a part of your everyday actions requires deliberate effort and practical strategies. Creating reminders of your intentions and placing them where you will see them frequently, such as on sticky notes around your home, as a screensaver on your phone or computer, or in a journal you write in daily, can help keep your intentions at the forefront of your mind. Starting your day with a ritual that reinforces your intentions, like a few minutes of meditation, reading your intentions aloud, or setting a daily goal that aligns with your larger intentions, can set a positive tone and keep you focused.

Throughout the day, take a few moments to check in with yourself and ask, "Are my actions aligning with my intentions?" These brief pauses allow you to adjust your behavior and decisions in real-time, ensuring you stay on track. Sharing your intentions with someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, or coach, can significantly enhance your commitment to your intentions by providing support and encouragement.

At the end of each day, take some time to reflect on how well you lived in alignment with your intentions. Write about what went well, what challenges you faced, and how you can improve. This practice helps you learn and grow, continuously refining your approach. Recognize and celebrate the small victories along the way. Each step towards living your intentions is progress, and acknowledging these achievements keeps you motivated and positive.

Life is dynamic, and sometimes your intentions may need to adapt to new circumstances. Be flexible and willing to adjust your intentions as needed, while staying true to your core values and overall purpose. Regularly revisit your intentions and set long-term goals that align with them. Break these goals into smaller, manageable tasks that you can incorporate into your daily or weekly routines. This structured approach helps you make consistent progress.

To further support your journey, consider using my digital vision board, available for just $7! A digital vision board can be an excellent tool to visualize your intentions and keep them at the forefront of your mind. It allows you to create a visual representation of your goals and dreams, serving as a constant reminder of what you are working towards. You can use it as your phone wallpaper, computer screensaver, or print it out and place it somewhere you see daily. By integrating these strategies into your daily life, you'll find that your intentions become more than just thoughts or aspirations. They will become the driving force behind your actions, leading you towards a more intentional, purposeful, and fulfilling life. Remember, the journey towards living your intentions is ongoing, and every step you take brings you closer to your true self.

[Music]

AD

Welcome, dear Momma. Have you ever felt like your days blur into an endless series of tasks, leaving you longing for meaningful moments that nurture your soul? I understand. You’re more than just a mom; you’re the core of your home, deserving of a life that's rich and fulfilling, just like you.

That's why I'm inviting you to embark on a transformative journey with my diverse range of programs at Wellness in Every Season. Imagine turning daily duties into soul-enriching experiences. Picture yourself stepping into your home and feeling peace and joy, not stress. Visualize a household where responsibilities are shared equally, respecting the unique strengths and needs of each family member. In my programs, we delve into what true equality in the home looks like, helping you create a balanced, joyful family life.

My programs are tailored to meet the needs of busy, budget-conscious moms. Some can be completed in just a couple of hours and start at $7, while others are free and take only a few minutes. For those seeking a more profound transformation, I offer in-depth programs that explore your dreams, desires, and what makes you uniquely 'you.'

Self-care is a cornerstone of my approach. Together, we'll discover what true self-care means for you, making it a solid foundation of your daily routine. We'll also focus on making and keeping promises to yourself, fostering a sense of trust and confidence in your ability to honor your own needs and aspirations. All of this happens within a supportive community of like-minded moms, each on their own path to transformation.

As we journey together, we'll focus on recognizing your intrinsic worth, nourishing your relationships, and understanding how creating personal space contributes to a happier, healthier life and partnership. This is more than a series of programs; it's a comprehensive guide to thriving in every aspect of your life.

All these resources are available on demand at wellnessineveryseason.com. Whether you're interested in reclaiming your time, finding your dream job, or any of my other programs, there is something here for you. You can also set up private one-on-one coaching sessions to receive personalized guidance and support.

Two coaching spots have just opened up, and they're waiting for moms like you who are ready to reclaim their true selves, balance their lives, and fulfill their dreams. Are you ready for this transformation? It's your time to shine. Sign up online at WellnessInEverySeason.com/contactus for a free 60-minute coaching call.

Join the waitlist now at wellnessineveryseason.com for any of my programs, from digital vision boards to parenting courses. Your new chapter is just around the corner, and it starts today. My goal is to help moms rediscover and return to their true selves beyond motherhood, find balance amidst chaos, strengthen relationships, and pursue their dreams. Let's thrive together.

[Music]

Key point #5

One of the most crucial aspects of maintaining and achieving your intentions is surrounding yourself with a supportive community. Whether it’s friends, family, mentors, or like-minded individuals, having people who understand and support your goals can make a significant difference. 

Consider joining or forming a group with individuals who share similar intentions or goals. This could be a parenting group, a professional network, or even a local community organization. These groups can provide a sense of accountability, as well as opportunities to share experiences, advice, and encouragement. 

Mentorship is another powerful tool. Seek out mentors who have achieved what you aspire to or who embody the values you hold dear. Their guidance and insights can be invaluable as you navigate your own path. Don’t hesitate to reach out to people you admire and ask for their mentorship or advice.

Additionally, be open to offering support to others. When you help someone else achieve their intentions, you reinforce your own commitment to your values and goals. This reciprocal support can strengthen your community and create a positive cycle of encouragement and growth.

Online communities can also be a great resource. Social media groups, forums, and online courses can connect you with people from all over the world who share your interests and intentions. These platforms can provide inspiration, support, and practical tips to help you stay on track.

Lastly, don't underestimate the power of your immediate family and close friends. Communicate your intentions with them and explain why they are important to you. Their understanding and support can create a nurturing environment that helps you stay focused and motivated.

[Music]

Lifehack segment:

Now it's time for our lifehack section, where I share practical tips to enhance your daily life. Today, I’ll explore steps to gain clarity of intention, helping you align your actions with your deepest values and desires.

Steps to Gain Clarity of Intention:

Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your values, passions, and long-term goals. Ask yourself questions like: What truly makes me happy? What are my core values? What do I want to achieve in the next five or ten years? Journaling can be a powerful tool for this self-exploration.

Identify Your Why: Understanding the 'why' behind your intentions is crucial. Why do you want to achieve this goal? What impact will it have on your life and the lives of those around you? When your intentions are rooted in meaningful reasons, you're more likely to stay motivated and committed.

Visualize Your Ideal Life: Create a mental image of your ideal life. What does it look like? How do you feel? Visualization can help you connect emotionally with your intentions and make them feel more tangible. Consider creating a vision board to bring your intentions to life visually.

Set Specific and Achievable Goals: Break down your intentions into specific, actionable goals. Make sure they are realistic and achievable within your current circumstances. Setting smaller milestones can help you stay on track and build momentum.

Create a Plan: Develop a plan to achieve your goals. Outline the steps you need to take, the resources you'll need, and any potential obstacles you might encounter. Having a clear plan can make your intentions feel more attainable and manageable.

Stay Flexible and Open: Life is unpredictable, and sometimes our intentions may need to evolve. Stay open to change and be willing to adjust your goals as needed. Flexibility doesn't mean losing sight of your intentions; it means adapting to new circumstances while staying true to your core values.

Regularly Revisit Your Intentions: Make it a habit to revisit your intentions regularly. Reflect on your progress, celebrate your achievements, and reassess your goals if necessary. Keeping your intentions at the forefront of your mind will help you stay aligned with your purpose.

Gaining clarity of intention is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, self-awareness, and a commitment to living authentically. But the rewards are profound – a life filled with purpose, fulfillment, and joy. I encourage you to take the time to reflect on your intentions and start aligning your actions with what truly matters to you. Thank you for joining me today on 'Wellness in Every Season.' If you found this episode helpful, please share it with others who might benefit. Until next time, take care and live intentionally.

[Music]

Key point #5: 

As you build your community and integrate your intentions into your daily life, it’s important to maintain momentum. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your goals is crucial, as life changes and so might your intentions. Regularly review your goals and adjust them as necessary to stay aligned with your evolving values and circumstances.

Take time to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress keeps you motivated and reinforces the positive changes you’re making. Keep yourself inspired by reading books, listening to podcasts, or attending workshops related to your intentions. Continuous learning can provide fresh perspectives and renewed motivation.

Self-care is essential for maintaining the energy and focus needed to pursue your intentions. Ensure you are taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. This holistic approach not only empowers you to achieve your goals but also fosters a sense of connectedness and shared purpose.

By discussing the importance of community and strategies for maintaining momentum, you provide your listeners with comprehensive tools to support their journey towards living with clear intentions. This holistic approach not only empowers them to achieve their goals but also fosters a sense of connectedness and shared purpose. 

These strategies, combined with the supportive environment of my programs at Wellness in Every Season, can help you transform your aspirations into reality, ensuring that you not only set but also achieve your intentions. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to a more intentional, purposeful, and fulfilling life.

[Music]

Segment: Coaching Questions

Here are ten coaching questions to help you reflect more deeply on your intentions, the role of community, and how to maintain momentum in your journey. Take some time to journal your thoughts and insights as you explore these questions.

1. What are my core values and how do they influence my intentions?

2. What long-term goals do I want to achieve in different areas of my life, such as personal growth, relationships, parenting, and professional development?

3. How can I create daily reminders that keep my intentions at the forefront of my mind?

4. What morning rituals can I implement to reinforce my intentions and set a positive tone for the day?

5. Who are the key people in my life that support my goals and intentions? How can I involve them more in my journey?

6. What specific actions can I take to offer support to others and create a positive cycle of encouragement and growth within my community?

7. How can I stay flexible and open to adjusting my intentions while staying true to my core values and overall purpose?

8. What self-care practices do I need to prioritize to maintain the energy and focus required to pursue my intentions?

9. How can I regularly review and adjust my goals to ensure they remain aligned with my evolving values and circumstances?

10. What small achievements have I made recently that I can celebrate, and how can recognizing these milestones keep me motivated?

As you journal through these questions, allow yourself to dig deep and uncover the motivations, challenges, and triumphs in your journey. This reflective practice will not only help you clarify your intentions but also provide a clear roadmap for integrating them into your daily life.

Remember, the process of setting and achieving intentions is ongoing and dynamic. By regularly reflecting on these questions and adjusting your actions accordingly, you'll continue to grow and evolve in alignment with your core values and goals. Your journey towards a more intentional, purposeful, and fulfilling life is unique and deeply personal, and these questions are here to guide you every step of the way. Thank you for joining me on 'Wellness in Every Season.' If you found this episode helpful, please share it with others who might benefit. Until next time, take care and live intentionally.

CLOSING REMARKS & EPISODE SUMMARY

Episode summary:

In this episode, listeners embarked on a journey to gain clarity of intention, discovering how to align their actions with their deepest values and desires. They explored practical strategies to integrate their intentions into daily life, understood the importance of building a supportive community, and learned how to maintain momentum in their personal and professional goals. Through reflective coaching questions, they were encouraged to delve deeper into their motivations, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment. As you reflect back on this episode, consider the realignment you’ve experienced and how these insights can continue to guide you towards a more intentional and meaningful life.

[Music]

Outro: 

Thank you for joining me on Wellness in Every Season. Remember to take time to relax, heal, and be present. Next week, we will be talking to Freda Graves-Waller about couponing and how she saved enough money from couponing to take her first ever family vacation.

Thanks for tuning into this week's episode. I am your host Autumn Carter, a certified life coach and parenting coach Dedicated to empowering mothers to rediscover their identity beyond motherhood, find balance amidst chaos, Strengthen relationships, and pursue their dreams.

My goal is to help moms thrive both as individuals and as parents. I hope today's discussion inspired you and offered valuable insights. Stay engaged with our motherhood wellness community by signing up for my newsletter at wellnessineveryseason. com slash free Dash resources. When you join, you'll have the option to receive a five day guide called Awaken and Unwind, five days to mastering moms, mornings and evening, along with free guides, special offers on my programs, practical tips, personal stories, and much more by signing up for both offers on the page.

Don't miss out on these valuable resources designed to help you thrive in every area of wellness as a mom and as an individual. Join today and start your journey to wellness in every season. Your shares, subscriptions, and reviews help us reach more moms seeking empowerment. So please spread the word about our podcast.

Thank you for being a part of our podcast community. I look forward to continuing our conversation, sharing stories, and exploring wellness in all aspects of motherhood. Take care until our next episode. You can also work with me one on one or on demand through one of my programs by visiting wellnessineveryseason.com/programs.

One last thing to cover the show legally. I am a certified life coach giving general advice. So think of this more like a self-help book. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. I am not a licensed therapist. So this podcast shouldn't be taken as a replacement for professional guidance from a doctor or therapist. If you want personal one-on-one coaching from a certified life and parenting coach, Go to my website, wellnessineveryseason.com. That's where you can get personalized coaching from me.

See you in next week's episode.