We’ve probably heard teachers or coaches instruct us to “set an intention” for this course, class, or practice session. And honestly, sometimes it sounds a bit corny. But when we consider how our brains work, teachers and coaches understand that setting an intention can be a strong factor in determining our outcome.
Our brains are wired to work hard to help keep us safe and to achieve our goals and dreams. Think about how when something is really important to us, whether it’s the anticipation of that vacation or the fear of what happens if we don’t finish a project on time, our brain can become hyper focused on that thought.
The brain’s Reticular Activating System is created to hyper focus our attention on whatever it is that we’re looking for. For example, if you’re considering buying a red car, all of a sudden you’ll notice that there are red cars everywhere! It’s not that there are more red cars, it’s just that your brain is now looking for (and finding!) them.
The same thing happens when we set an intention. If we wander through life without intentions, we will, well, wander through life. But when we set an intention, our brain goes to work to find whatever it is that we’re looking for. So if I set an intention to find gratitude in my day, all of a sudden my brain is looking for gratitude. This new focus has the potential to change my behaviors, my circumstances, and definitely my attitude.
Our limbic system (our fight/flight/freeze alarm system) resists trying new things or taking risks. Setting an intention can feel like a risk so there may be some resistance. Just start small with looking for gratitude, or small wins, or things that bring you even a tiny bit of joy.
The brain looks to locate the things we’re looking for. So what could you look for that can change your day? Perhaps instead of, “I’ve got a tough day today,” you could instead think, “I’ve got several new opportunities today”. Or instead of, “I’ll never accomplish that goal”, try “Today I’ll just find one baby step that I can take”.
So take a moment today to thank your limbic brain for all the work it’s been doing, and allow it to relax. Take a few deep breaths and consider, “I’m curious what intention I could set today that will allow me to find joy and connection in my day”.
Then just listen.
I’d love to hear what you came up with!
