Intention setting for fall
It’s already September, and I am shocked. It feels like just a few months ago I was celebrating the new year and planning my goals for the upcoming year. I can’t believe we are entering our final few months of the year! As the shelves of Trader Joe’s begin to fill with all things pumpkin flavored, I reflect on the year I thought I would have vs. how it went. Maybe you can relate?
My wish for you is that some of your hopes for this year have been made real. And, for most of us, there are probably some wishes that have so far gone unfulfilled. Luckily, the year is not over; we still have three months left! While many things are outside of our control we do have the ability to focus our free energy and attention on the things we want to.
Description: Person sitting in nature on tree
Practice this Intention Setting Exercise to Gain Clarity
Below is an exercise I recommend for gaining clarity on your intentions for Fall. You can do this 1x or even monthly to track your progress towards your goals.
Find a quiet place with minimal distractions. This could be a favorite room in your living space or a beautiful park. You can sit, stand, walk - whatever allows you to be most present for this exercise.
Notice your current inner state. Are you having lots of thoughts? Feeling aware of a body sensation? Take a moment to observe the various activities happening internally.
When you’re able, bring to mind your hopes for Fall. How would you like to use this time? For some this may be action oriented (finish a book, complete a painting, cook dinner 3x/wk) or connected to a state of mind (be kinder to myself, focus on work less, spend more time doing nothing). See if you can focus on words, images or even sensory experiences of how it would be to fulfill these hopes.
Deepen into these intentions through drawing, collaging or journaling. I recommend posting what you create somewhere where you can easily be reminded.
Ask yourself, “What is one thing I can do this week to move towards my goals?”
You have time. I’m rooting for you to spend this month in whatever way is most meaningful to you.
-Riley
