During certain months of the year, we are offered an opportunity to revisit and review the aims and goals we have set for ourselves, or begin some new ones instead. September is a great time to do this – it’s the beginning of the school calendar, and even when we become adults, we can still see it as an opportunity to refresh, and reset, following the summer months.
Of course, we might not go straight out and change our job, get a new hairstyle or book ourselves on a course, however we can use the transition to Autumn to create aims or plans - otherwise known as setting intentions. This is a way of creating a clear pathway in your life, and the clearer you are about your intentions, the easier it is to open yourself up to the next step to getting there.
Intention has featured in various cultures and philosophies throughout the years. In Buddhism, It is known as Cetanā, and is defined as ‘a mental factor that moves or urges the mind in a particular direction, toward a specific object or goal’. In yogic philosophy, it is termed as Sankalpa and refers to ‘a heartfelt desire, a solemn vow, an intention, or a resolve to do something’ and, instead of linking to the mind like Buddhism, it connects to the hearts highest intention.
In recent times, author Wayne Dyer, referred to intention as ‘the energy that surrounds us all, and allows us to accomplish our life goals’.
‘When you are connected to the power of intention, everywhere you go, and everyone you meet, is affected by you and the energy you radiate.’ ~ Wayne Dyer, The Power of Intention; Learning to Co-create Your World Your Way
During our Meditation Teacher Training, we work with our students to fine tune their aims and goals. At the beginning of the training, the path doesn’t need to be clear, yet as we move through the training units and assignments, the foundations of the intentions start to be formed. The knowledge and know-how behind the teaching is built, so that confidence can grow. The ‘why’ (the reason for teaching), the ‘who’ (your target audience), the ‘what’ (your beginners course), and the ‘how’ (where you will teach) starts to become crystal clear. It is a beautiful combination of mind, heart, and energy, coming together whilst also utilising your experience and values.
According to psychotherapist, Terri Cole, ‘Goals seem to be very one-dimensional. Intentions add some depth. They give us a reference point for how we’d like to spend the time in between now and when we actualise our goal or dream. Think about it this way: When you are in the driver’s seat, goals are your destination. Intentions are the route you plan to take’.
Your dream, or you goal, right now, may be to help those who are going through a difficult time; it might be to turn your passion for meditation into a career; or it may be to choose a life of meaning and purpose. To get to the destination – to know the best route to take – is something we can help you with, within our training, and support too.
If you would like to find out how to take the next steps to a clearer path, we would love to hear from you. Drop us an email to info@teaching-meditation.co.uk to find out more.