Intentionality, With A Behavioral Purpose

To develop and achieve goals takes continuous doses of intentionality. Acting “On Purpose” is the behavioral name of the game. Operating on “cruise control” or in “default” mode won’t cut it and get the changes you are striving for. Being more intentional takes extra focus and consumes more mental resources. You might feel more tired at the end of the day when being more intentional.

To sustain intentionality demands a disciplined and deliberate commitment. That commitment takes effort. At the beginning of focus on a new goal, we want to see swift progress, but reality is that progress comes over time.

Examples:

• A new nutrition program will not likely start to show results for weeks/months

• A new weight training or cardio workout program will not start to show results for weeks

• Changing a habit (example: not interrupting others when they are speaking) takes days of constant repetition

• Altering a mindset belief to change a leadership behavior (example: being a more focused listener) can take months

But, we are programmed to see more immediate gains. We like the feeling of immediate gratification. The world is conditioning us more in that regard.

The battle starts in our mind, knowing that the above conditions exist and can work against us. However, we know that perseverance and adaptability are two critical principles that can be our best friends.

To win the battle of perseverance and adapting will likely require a mindset shift.

As you consider your individual or team goals, spend some time assessing and rationalizing beliefs that need a reset. For it truly is those beliefs that can be either big enablers or unfortunate disablers of achieving your goals in the timeframe you established.

In conclusion, intentionality takes alignment of beliefs and often enough a willingness to reassess those beliefs to get to new behaviors.