This is the first in a series of videos about how to make transformational change in your life. In this video we will talk about how to clarify your desired outcome.
Before we dive in, I want to tell you about a series of experiments conducted in 2007 and 2008. Researchers separated 160 barley seeds into 4 groups labeled A, B, C, and D. Each time the experiment was run, the seeds were in the lab at the University of Arizona. Volunteers in a remote location focused intention for growth on one of groups for 10 minutes.
“My intention is for all the seeds in the target group to sprout at least 3 mm by the 4th day “
The location of the participants changed each time: audiences in Sydney, Australia (600 participants), Palm Springs, California (130), Rheinbeck, New York (100), Hilton Head, North Carolina (500) and Austin, Texas (120) plus people participating over the internet. The researchers in the lab did not know which group of seeds received intention. The seeds were harvested 5 days later and measured. Every time the group of seeds that were sent intention grew faster than the seeds in the other groups.
So what do seeds have to do with your transformational journey? The first step is to set your intention, which requires being crystal clear in your mind about your desired outcome. What does success look like for you?
Let’s revisit the wording of the intention used in the seed germination experiments. What do you notice about it?
1 - it’s very specifically focused on growth. There’s no mention of any other type of change.
2 - the intention states “what” not “how”
3 - the results are measurable — at least 3 mm
4 — the timeframe is limited to 4 days
Think about whatever it is that you want to change. Usually, transformational change involves our health, finances, or relationships. Things like losing 20 pounds, buying a new car, or finding a romantic partner. These are all things that take time - they wont change overnight. But we can still set an intention for what we will do differently over the next week.
What’s the first step for you? Write it down in the form of an intention. Here’s some examples to help you get started.
Health
I intend to walk for 20 minutes at least 3 days this week.
I intend to eat at least 3 servings of fresh fruit or vegetables every day for the next 5 days.
Finances
I intend to deposit at least $20 in my savings account this week.
I intend to upload my resume to at least 2 job search sites by Saturday.
Relationships
I intend to make new friends by participating in a meet-up event next weekend.
I intend to list 10 things that I like about myself.
Spend some time this week writing your first intention. If you need help, leave a comment below or email me at IntendWellLLC@gmail.com.
See you next week when we will talk about how to know that you are ready for change.
If you want to see the power of intention for yourself try the seed experiment at home.
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