Intention and Action: The Dynamic Duo of Highly Effective Leaders

 

 

 

 

Two of the most powerful forces on the planet are intention and action. They are linked together, yet completely separate. And as we better understand their power, we are better able to use the collective and individual power of each. 

Action

Nothing happens or changes until someone does something. As leaders, we are in the behavior business. Choosing our behaviors and observing those of others is a big part of our job. Action also dictates and informs our improvement. It is fine if we have learned something, but until we turn it into action, the learning is hollow and less-than-helpful. 

Intention

Intention – when disconnected from action – can be unhelpful and unhealthy. Note the proverb: The road to hell is paved with good intentions. In this view, intention without action gives the word a bad name.

But intention when applied to action helps us overcome the status quo, break from unhelpful habits and sets the table for acting in new and specifically chosen ways.

The Combined Power

When we combine intention and action, (really) good things can happen.

If I have decided when I see a situation that I will respond in a new way, I have set an intention. When you change your response in that situation, you will get better results or learn something to apply intentionally next time.

If I attend a training session, read about a concept in a book or hear about it in a podcast, I can decide to apply it when appropriate. There is the intention. When I couple that with action, I will get a new result.

Intention then is a powerful antecedent to purposeful and flexible action.

If there is no intention to try something new, we will continue to operate on autopilot.

If there is intention but no action, there is often guilt or a loss of confidence. 

Tapping the Power

To tap the power of intention and action we must:

Recognize the power. Realize that a new intention is likely needed if we want any change in our behavior and results. Be willing to move past norms and habits. We must let go of the tried, true and automatic to even have a chance for change.

Try the new thing. Once you have decided a new intention is helpful, resolve to do what you intend, rather than what is automatic.

Reflect. Look at what worked and what didn’t and set a new intention for your next opportunity.

When we do these three things – when we couple intention and action – we have a chance to get new better results. And until we make that choice, we will likely get the same results; and in a world that is always changing, we might get diminishing results from consistent, automatic action.

To your greater effectiveness,

Peter Mclees, Leadership Coach, Trainer and Performance Consultant
SMART DEVELOPMENT

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