Goals vs. Intentions: What is the difference?
updated Dec 2024
When it comes to creating the life you want, understanding the difference between goals and intentions can be a game-changer.
By learning to balance ‘doing’ with ‘being,’ you can align your aspirations with your inner values, creating a more fulfilling and purpose-driven path. The ultimate composed living.
It’s the perfect time to pause and consider what truly matters to you as you determine and your path ahead. so let’s dive into how these two concepts can work together to help you live your best life.
Goals are about doing. What is something you want to do?
Goals are focusing on external accomplishments. I will run a half marathon, I will get that promotion at work, I will go to yoga 2x/week. Goals are about reaching a desired outcome and getting to a final destination, placing the majority of the value on completing the desired outcome. Crossing the finish line at the half marathon.
Intentions are about being. What, or how, do you want to be?
Intentions are about connecting to a greater purpose and the journey to getting there. Placing value on the experiences, the moments along the journey. There is a little more flexibility in practice when working with an intention. Was there enjoyment and fulfillment from completing the race, what meaningful lessons came from the commitment to training? Intentions are focused on how you want to feel. It will feel easier to get out of bed after my alarm goes off to train, I feel gratitude when my alarm goes off.
Reflect on the difference between and goal and an intention and set some of your own.
What are your goals and intentions for the new year?
Get clear on your goals and intentions. Ask yourself: What do I truly want — and why does it matter to me?
Take some time to answer these questions:
What goals do I want to accomplish this year? Common goals could include running a marathon or starting a business.
What are my intentions behind these goals? Do you want to be open to new opportunities or approach challenges with curiosity? You could be seeking to prioritize rest and balance while being more present or protecting your boundaries.
Then take it one step further—visualize how achieving your goals will feel, or how living with intention will shape your day-to-day life.
For example:
if your goal is to get more organized, imagine the ease and peace you’ll feel when everything has its place.
if your intention is to cultivate balance, picture yourself taking a moment to breathe living with more awareness, appreciation, and emotional fulfillment.
Write it down, sketch it out, or simply sit with the idea—let it soak in.
Hot tip: Feeling inspired? Make a collage or vision board of your goals and intentions. Take a digital photo of it and set the photo as your mobile wallpaper (or desktop background) to keep focus at the front of mind daily.
As you can see, both goals and intentions hold the power to enrich your life in meaningful ways.
By pairing actionable steps with purposeful reflection, you can now create a roadmap that not only guides you toward accomplishments but also allows you to enjoy the moment.
Here’s to a year of clarity, purpose, and living with intention!
