Intentions vs goals - do you need both?

Est. reading time: 5 min

“I’m not setting goals, I’m setting intentions this year!”

You’ve probably heard this hot topic and change in language the last few years. Often around the new year or a new quarter. Intentions sound much sexier than goals don’t they?

Sometimes people will use the two terms interchangeably, but they’re usually paired together — the dynamic duo of productivity and personal growth. They're like Batman and Robin, peanut butter and jelly, or … Netflix and chill. But are they equally important, or is one the standout hero over the other?

Intentions: The Dreamy Foundation

As I mentioned, intentions are the sexy companion to goals.

Intentions are like the warm, cozy blanket of your ambitions. They set the stage for what you want to achieve, providing a sense of purpose and direction. Think of them as the "why" behind your goals. They're not always specific or time-bound, and that's perfectly fine!

For instance, your intention might be: "I want to live a healthier life," or "I aim to be a more positive person." These intentions are the broad strokes of your masterpiece, the foundation upon which your goals will be built.

Intentions are great (and a must for purposeful living), but they can’t stand completely on their own.

Goals: The Exciting Milestones

When you think about goals, you might hear some groans, and they don’t seem as enticing, but they are in fact enthusiastic milestones in your journey. Goals are the "what" and "when" of your plans. They break down your intentions into achievable, measurable, and time-bound tasks. Remember, while intentions might be a little dreamy, vague, and open-ended, goals are clear, concrete, and actionable.

A goal could be: "I will lose 10 pounds in the next three months," or "I will meditate for 15 minutes every day for the next month." Goals give your intentions a roadmap and turn those dreams into actionable steps.

The Perfect Pair: Intentions + PACT Goals

So, do you need both intentions and goals? Absolutely! They're like a power couple that should never be split up. But there's a secret ingredient that makes this partnership even more magical – PACT intentions.

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