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How to Set Intentions For Your Finances
Setting intentions can be a powerful way to improve your finances. Through the power of intentional thoughts, it is possible to completely transform your financial situation for the better. Learning how to set intentions can be a turning point for your finances.
Not sure how to set intentions? We’ll take a closer look at how to set intentions and why being intentional is important.
What are your intentions?
At first glance, an intention may seem like another word for a goal. But an intention is less specific than a particular goal. Instead, an intention reflects a purpose or attitude. An intention should be based on your personal values. Not only should the focus be on your mind (and body), but also on what direction you want your life to move towards.
Examples of intentions
You can set intentions across your entire life. For example, you might set an intention to embrace the changing world, accept others, or find peace. But you can also set financial intentions. A few good examples include working towards financial stability and eliminating cumbersome financial obligations.
Notice that these financial intentions are not specific goals. In contrast, a financial goal that could help you achieve your intentions includes paying off debt or completing a budgeting course.
How to set intentions for your finances
Intentions can be a useful tool in many areas of your life. But today, we will focus on how to set intentions for your finances. Here’s what you need to do to set intentions that will guide your finances forward.
What matters to you most?
Since intentions should be based on your unique values, you’ll need to take some time to determine what matters to you the most. You don’t have to think simply in terms of financial costs, but you should consider how money plays into the picture.
By determining what matters most to you as an individual, you can set up financial intentions that align with those values. For example, you may want to spend more time with your family. But without considering how financial obligations can get in the way, you may not be able to make this a reality. You could set the intention to become financially stable which would likely allow for more family time in the future.
Create a money mantra
A money mantra or financial affirmation can be a useful way to quickly remind yourself of your goals. Whenever you run into an obstacle, a solid money mantra can help you refocus your efforts on your money intentions. Without a mantra to summarize your intention succinctly, it can be easy to gloss over your intentions when things become more challenging.
A few good examples of money mantras include:
- Money can expand the opportunities in my life.
- I can become financially free.
- My income has unlimited potential.
Whatever your financial intentions are, take some time to create a money mantra that reminds you of the importance of your new intention.
Find an accountability buddy on a similar journey
An accountability buddy can be a helpful way to stay on track in any journey. When you have a friend to accompany on on the journey, it can be easier to face the inevitable obstacles.
Seek out friends that are working towards similar financial places. For example, if you are trying to pay off your student loans, then seek out a buddy that is also paying off debt. Not sure where to find an accountability buddy? Get started with these helpful tips.
Create a money ritual
Once you set your money intentions, you should create a money ritual to check in with your finances regularly. You can choose to create a daily, weekly, or monthly ritual that helps you keep tabs on your money progress.
Personally, I have a monthly money ritual in which I check over my budget and revisit my long-term financial plans. I make it a point to tackle this ritual on the first of every month so that I can get a better idea of where my actions are taking my finances. If I need to readjust my behavior, I’ll have that fresh in my mind as I leap into a new month.
You might prefer a daily money ritual to check in on your progress. A good daily ritual is to simply state your intentions aloud as part of your morning routine. With that, you can start your day with your intentions in mind.
Focus on the positives
As you set intentions for the future of your money, it can be easy to forget about what you already have. Don’t forget to be grateful for the positive things already in your life. Everyone has something to be thankful for. As you look towards the future, don’t discount the blessings you already have.
Look at your intentions daily
Once you’ve determined your intentions, place them in a spot where you’ll see them every day. With your intentions in plain sight, you’ll be regularly reminded about what matters to you. It can be easier to make progress towards intentions that are constantly at the forefront of your mind.
You could put a post-it on the bathroom mirror or hang a note on your wall. Just make sure that you will regularly see these intentions.
Look beyond the dollar signs
As you work to improve your finances, it can be easy to lose sight of what really matters. Instead of focusing on the pennies, consider how your money intentions can improve your life.
With each step towards a better financial future, remember what you want your life to look like in the future. Look beyond the financial costs and consider the personal and emotional tolls that your actions may have.
Journal about your intentions
Although it is important to set money intentions, you should recognize that things will change over time. That’s why a journal can come in handy.
With a journal, you can clarify your thoughts, work through obstacles, and recognize success along the way. Keep your money intentions in mind as you regularly journal. You will be able to adjust your money intentions in response to your changing priorities.
The bottom line
Money intentions can be a powerful way to propel yourself toward a better financial future. Take some time to consider how money intentions could be useful in your own life. Then take action and set your money intentions today!
