By EVELYN HASEMAN
Intentions are not merely thoughts; they are conscious decisions that shape how we interact with the world, transforming our life experience. While aspirations provide the overarching vision—how you wish to manifest your presence in the world—daily intentions are the actionable steps that bring those aspirations to fruition.
Think of aspirations as the big picture, your core values and guiding principles. In contrast, intentions are the focused actions you take each day to embody those values. For example, if your aspiration is to cultivate compassion, a daily intention might be to listen deeply and respond with kindness in your interactions with family at dinner today.
When you set a clear intention, you're doing more than making a mental note—you’re engaging a complex neurochemical process in your brain that supports lasting change. Here’s how it works:
Adrenaline for alertness and energy: Focusing on an intention triggers the release of adrenaline, the hormone that boosts your energy and keeps you alert. This heightened awareness helps you stay engaged with your intention, making it easier to act.
The focus neurotransmitter: Along with adrenaline, your brain releases neuro-transmitters that sharpen your focus and attention. This enables you to concentrate on your intention without distraction, increasing your likelihood of following through.
Together, these neurochemicals create a powerful support system, optimizing your ability to bring your intentions to life. By setting clear intentions, you prime your brain to keep you motivated, focused, and energized, paving the way for real, lasting change.
The Dharma Buddies Program is an ideal way to nurture the practice of setting daily intentions. Each morning, set your intention for the day and text or email it to your Dharma Buddy. Your buddy will respond with their daily intention, creating a space of mutual support and accountability.
The FCM program runs October 7 through December 16, and registration ends September 29. If you’re requesting a specific buddy, both buddies must contact evelynhaseman@gmail.com after completing registration. All FCM members are eligible for a Dharma Buddy, and Fred encourages everyone to participate to help bring change into your life.
If you register for the Mindful Living Path (MLP) Intensive, "Emotional Healing," you will automatically be paired with a buddy for the Intensive unless you request a specific person who is also in the same Intensive. If requesting a specific buddy, contact Evie at evelynhaseman@gmail.com. You do not need to register separately for the Dharma Buddies program if you are in this Intensive.
There is no charge for a Dharma Buddy. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your practice with the power of intentions that can change your life.
Evelyn Haseman of Temple Terrace has been a member of FCM since 2012 and has been involved in several leadership positions, including the Dharma Buddies program for five years. She attends the Tampa Sangha and is a member of the Order of Interbeing.
