Intention

There is a word that is an essential building block of success. That word is Intention. Everything that one succeeds at begins with intention. Intention is pointed direction. It is a driving force.

Intention is motive.

The biggest tool for advancement and discernment (empowerment) is seeking out intention in yourself and others.

Not only is intention the starting marker for putting in your best it is also a ruler by which you can measure others. Understanding the intention of others will provide all the information needed for pruning relationships.

There is a saying repeated often, and it bears repeating that we rise to the level of those with whom we surround ourselves. So, if you want a good measure of where you are going, look at those you choose to hold council with.

Blind Cannot Lead the Blind.

A person with an impoverished mind cannot show you how to be wealthy. A person who isn’t a parent can’t tell you how to be a parent. Someone who has never been married can’t counsel on how to develop a deep and abiding marriage.

However, If you find yourself in a circle of people who are your equals in aspiration or have reached a level to which you aspire, then the next measure is to search out their intention.

Inequality of Intentions

Not all intentions are equal. Two people can desire the same outcome but for entirely different reasons. For example, one might desire to be rich to give back, while another may want to be rich as a means of revenge. Their sole purpose is to push their success in the face of others.

Some may want to get to know you because they are interested in developing a genuine friendship. Others have designs on you. There is an underlying motive, possibly exploitation or harm.

Always ask why?

Before you undertake something, ask yourself, why am I doing this?

Before accepting anyone into your circle, examine why you want them in your circle. And if someone approaches you with a desire to connect, ask yourself why?

When we discover our intention and the intention of others, we save ourselves a lot of pain.

What I Learned

Nine times out of ten, I have discovered when something doesn’t work out for me, it’s because it was driven by the wrong motive. When I am most let down, I look for the wrong things. My intentions are not pure.

This self-examination is not something that comes easily. It is easy to fall back into negative patterns. But it’s worth changing those habits. When changing your habits, you change your life.