'Cheryl [Richardson, life coach and author] says the biggest difference between the two [ a wish and an intention] is how they
originate. "A wish is often coming from what isn't working in your
life. Like, 'I wish I
would win the lottery because I'm in debt. I wish
I would meet a partner because I'm lonely and I don't feel comfortable
living alone.'"
"An intention is a soul goal, not a head goal," she says. "My prayer is always, 'If this is in the highest and best interest for me and those around me, then please allow it to happen.' And that sort of is a humble way of saying it's not just about me and what my head thinks because I'm a physical being and I'm having a physical experience. It is also about me and this greater energy, this greater creative force, and that's where an intention is set from."
Martha [Beck] says she has an even simpler way of knowing whether something is a wish or an intention. "What I found is that if you really want something, it makes you feel physically stronger," she says. "And if you think you want it but you don't really want it, it makes you feel physically weaker." '
from Oprahs' website: http://www.oprah.com/slideshow/spirit/inspiration/20080627_tows_lawofattraction/12
When I set my intention I focus on what I want (as opposed to what I don't want or a "should" or an "ought to"). When the wording is "right", It has a clarity that feels good to me. It does make me feel physically stronger.
I believe if you listen to your internal guidance when setting intention, it will be "soul" driven. Learning to set a clear intention takes practice. It also takes practice to notice any conflicting beliefs/assumptions or fears that are are getting in the way. My thoughts, emotions and actions are all key in the manifestation process. Mixed beliefs/thoughts/emotions get mixed results.
How do you work with intention?
Note: Picture was taken of a plant, not a feather, at the Krohn Conservatory in Cincinnati, OH