You found our guide to Setting Intentions!

First off, we want to say — you’re doing great. Life can be challenging, and the fact that you’re here, looking for little ways to invite more positivity into your days, is something to celebrate. Setting intentions is a gentle, powerful way to care for yourself and create space for what matters most.

This article includes:

setting intentions
intentions meaning
daily affirmations
visualization techniques
manifestation

Interested in more mindfulness practices? Check out March Mindfulness: 10 Meditation Exercises.

So what does it mean to set an intention? Simply put, it’s about deciding how you want to show up in your life. It’s less about rigid goals and more about planting a seed for the mindset and energy you want to carry forward. Whether it’s kindness, calm, growth, or joy, your intentions can help guide you.

Let’s get to it!

How to Set Intentions

Setting intentions involves consciously choosing the mindset, energy, or qualities you want to invite into your life. It’s a way to focus your attention and create positive momentum without pressure or rigid expectations.

Start by pausing and tuning in to how you feel right now. Ask yourself what you want more of — whether it’s calm, confidence, joy, patience, or something else. Your intention can be a word, a phrase, or a feeling that resonates deeply with you.
Write your intention down or say it out loud. This helps bring clarity and makes it feel real. You can light a candle, create a quiet space, or use a ritual that feels meaningful to you to mark the moment.
Regularly revisit your intentions. Check in with yourself daily or weekly by repeating your intention or reflecting on how it’s showing up in your life. Be patient — intentions aren’t instant fixes but gentle guides that grow with you over time.

Remember, setting intentions is a personal practice — there’s no right or wrong way. The most important part is to be kind and curious with yourself as you explore what feels meaningful.

A Beginner’s Guide to Setting Positive Intentions

Here are some simple, beginner-friendly ways to set positive intentions for yourself

1. Write Yourself a Self-Care Love Letter

Think of this as a little note of encouragement you write to yourself — a reminder that you’re worthy of kindness and care. Reflect on what you’ve been through and offer yourself some compassionate words. You can use your journal or even just a piece of paper. Keep it somewhere safe and revisit it whenever you need a boost.

2. Light a Candle and Visualize Your Intentions

Creating a calm, intentional moment can help you focus on your hopes for the future. Light a non-toxic candle, close your eyes, and imagine what you want more of in your life. Whether it’s more connection, confidence, or calm, really picture how it feels and what it looks like.

3. Make More Room for Self-Care in Your Life

Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. Choose simple ways to nurture yourself regularly, whether that’s a peaceful bath, meditation, a workout, or an at-home manicure. These moments help you pause, reflect, and recharge, making space for your intentions to grow.

4. Use Positive Affirmations Daily

Affirmations are kind, powerful phrases you say to yourself to encourage a positive mindset. Pick affirmations that feel meaningful to you, like “I am enough” or “I deserve joy,” and say them aloud in the mirror each day. This practice can gradually shift how you feel inside, building confidence and calm.

Final Thoughts

Setting intentions is a beautiful way to show yourself love and set a positive tone for the days ahead. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection — just taking small steps toward the life you want.

We’re sending you good vibes and hope this guide inspires you to bring more light and care into your life. If you’d like, share your intentions or hopes in the comments or tag us on Instagram — we’d love to hear from you!

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FAQ: A Beginner’s Guide to Setting Positive Intentions

1. What does it really mean to set intentions?

Setting intentions means choosing the energy or mindset you want to bring into your life. It’s about focusing on how you want to feel or show up, rather than setting strict goals. Intentions help guide your thoughts and actions with purpose and positivity.

2. How is setting intentions different from making goals?

Goals are specific targets you aim to achieve, like running a marathon or finishing a project. Intentions are broader and focus on your overall mindset or way of being, such as practicing patience or self-love. Intentions create the space for growth, while goals measure progress.

3. What are some common mistakes people make when setting intentions?

A few common pitfalls include: setting vague or unrealistic intentions, expecting instant results, or forcing intentions instead of letting them evolve naturally. Remember, intentions are personal and flexible — they grow with you, so be gentle and patient with yourself.

4. How often should I revisit or update my intentions?

There’s no set rule! Many people find it helpful to revisit their intentions monthly, seasonally, or whenever they feel called to check in with themselves. It’s okay to adjust your intentions as your needs and priorities change.

5. Can I set intentions for different areas of my life?

Absolutely! You can set intentions for your health, relationships, work, or personal growth — whatever feels meaningful to you. Having a few focused intentions can help you create balance and clarity in different parts of your life.