Happy Sunday!

Mindy’s still asleep in our bed. We had a lovely restful weekend, and I’m delighted that’s continuing through this morning.

I’m working through several concepts reflecting on this month’s focus on the value and power of intention. If you find something you like as you pull on a thread, please reach out and share. You can reach us at [email protected] or on IG.

—david/gonzo

The scientific literature shows that intention plays a crucial role in human behavior and achievement through multiple pathways: as a key component of mindfulness practices, as a foundation for habit formation, as a specific implementation tool for goal achievement, as a neurologically based process in the prefrontal cortex, and as a motivational force that, when aligned with intrinsic values, leads to greater well-being and sustained effort.

• Intention & Expectation can get all mixed up: Thinking and self-reflecting, some questions arise. What is intention without expectation? Can it exist? If so, what is the substance of an expectation-free intention? How are unintended consequences accounted for in intention?

• Ceremonial Magic: Midnight Gospel Episode 3: Hunters Without a Home is based on a conversation with Duncan Trussell and Damien Echols (convicted of murder as part of the West Memphis Three). Damien explains how his relationship with ceremonial magic got him to a place many get to through Eastern philosophy: access to presence. Netflix, Original Audio

• Intention as Part of Mindfulness Practices: Intention-setting is foundational to mindfulness and meditation. Studies show that mindfulness practices often begin with an intention to enhance focus, emotional regulation, and resilience. Example: Starting a mindfulness practice with “I intend to remain open and curious during this meditation” can influence outcomes positively. Full text

• Habit Formation and Intention: Intentions are the precursor to habit formation. According to Charles Duhigg in The Power of Habit, creating intentional “keystone habits” can cascade positive effects across other areas of life. Example: Setting an intention to journal daily can improve emotional clarity, which may lead to better decision-making in unrelated areas. Full text

• The Role of Intention in Goal Achievement: Research by Peter Gollwitzer highlights the concept of implementation intentions—specific “if-then” plans that link intention to actions. Example: Setting an implementation intention like "If I finish dinner, then I will immediately take a 15-minute walk" is more effective than a general intention to exercise. Abstract

• Self-Determination Theory (SDT): SDT posits that intentions aligned with intrinsic motivations—those driven by personal values and interests—lead to greater well-being and sustained effort. Example: Setting an intention to exercise for improved health (intrinsic) is more sustainable than doing it for external rewards like approval. Full text

• Neurological Basis of Intention: Intentionality involves the prefrontal cortex, particularly the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), and is associated with planning, decision-making, and goal-directed behaviors. Full text

And here’s how I see this, diagrammatically, ‘cause I mostly see in pictures.

—david/gonzo

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That’s all for this week! If you’re into this, share this newsletter with all your friends. Connecting with new subscribers is magical! 🧚🏻‍♀️

DISCLAIMER: This newsletter is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.