PERSONAL CHANGE RESOURCES: Setting Intentions

When we set a clear intention, we give direction and focus to our actions, which can increase motivation and help us achieve our goals. Intention-setting can also promote a growth mindset and increase feelings of self-efficacy, or the belief in one's ability to achieve a desired outcome.

Additionally, research suggests that setting specific and achievable intentions can lead to better decision making and goal attainment compared to not having a clear intention. Overall, the power of setting intentions lies in the ability to guide and shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors towards a desired outcome.

The neuroscience of intention setting

The process of setting intentions involves various brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex and the basal ganglia. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for decision making and goal setting, while the basal ganglia helps to implement these intentions by establishing habits and routines. When we set an intention, neurons in the prefrontal cortex form a representation of the desired outcome, which then influences the activity of the basal ganglia to execute actions aligned with that goal. Studies have also shown that the act of setting an intention can activate the brain's reward system, providing a motivational boost to follow through with the desired behavior.