How to feel whole and connected to your personal authenticity

Do you ever feel like there is a puzzle piece missing from your life? Or maybe you see your reflection similar to a shattered mirror?

Feeling whole as a person matters because a sense of wholeness contributes to a balanced, happy and meaningful life. Everyone has a right to feel complete. You deserve to feel complete.

In the fast-paced world, a lot of us grapple with a pervasive sense of incompleteness. From the relentless pressure of expectations, to the isolating impact of technology, there are various reasons many of us feel incomplete in the contemporary world.

Let’s explore some of the reasons why this is, and what we can do to feel a greater sense of wholeness.

Understanding what happens when we feel incomplete  

Understanding what makes us feel incomplete will help in addressing and mitigating these feelings. Here are some reasons we might feel in complete and not connected to our authentic sense of self.

Social comparison

Constantly comparing oneself to others can contribute to feelings of inadequacy. Unhealthy social comparisons may erode self-esteem and make it challenging to appreciate one's own unique qualities and contributions. 

External Validation

Relying heavily on external validation, such as seeking approval from others or defining self-worth through achievements, can result in a fragile sense of identity. The absence of external validation may lead to feelings of emptiness and unfulfillment.

Unresolved emotional pain or trauma

Past traumas and unresolved emotional wounds can create internal fractures, hindering the development of a healthy sense of self. Unaddressed trauma may lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and difficulty forming healthy relationships.

Lack of self-awareness

When we are not fully aware of what is important to us, or who we are, we can struggle with a sound sense of self. This lack of self-awareness can result in feelings of confusion and disconnection. 

Unrealistic expectations

Are you a perfectionist? Were you raised by parents or a guardian who set high expectations for you? Setting unrealistic expectations for yourself, whether in relationships, career, or personal development, can create a perpetual sense of falling short 😞. The inability to meet these expectations may lead to feelings of failure and inadequacy.

Disconnection from your passions

Ignoring or neglecting activities and pursuits that bring joy and fulfillment can contribute to a lack of wholeness. Disconnecting from one's passions may leave a void that is not easily filled by routine or external achievements.

Fragmentation of identity

The fast-paced and dynamic nature of modern life can contribute to a fragmented sense of identity. Juggling multiple roles and responsibilities may leave individuals feeling disconnected from their authentic selves.

Disconnection from nature

As we become increasingly urbanized and technologically connected rather than connected through family or the traditional market and community gatherings, there is a growing disconnection from nature… and each other.

This separation from the natural world, which has been a source of grounding and balance throughout human history, can contribute to feelings of emptiness.

Isolation and Lack of Community

Despite increased connectivity through technology, some individuals experience a sense of social isolation. The breakdown of traditional communities and a focus on individualism can leave people feeling disconnected and lonely.

Consumerism and Materialism

The emphasis on consumerism and material success as markers of a fulfilling life can lead to a perpetual pursuit of external validation and possessions. These external status markers and ‘things’ bring short term pleasure and do not bring lasting satisfaction, individuals may feel a sense of emptiness.

Overemphasis on achievement

Modern life often prioritises achievement and success, sometimes at the expense of well-being and personal fulfillment. 

The constant pursuit of goals without attention to personal values and intrinsic motivation can contribute to a feeling of hollowness.

Technology overload

Technology has brought huge benefits. Who doesn’t love having the knowledge of the world at our fingertips, video chats, or food arriving at our door in 20 minutes? However, the constant exposure to screens and digital communication can contribute to a sense of disconnection from the present moment and authentic human interactions.

UNWELL Mental Health

Conditions such as depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues can significantly impact the perception of wholeness. These conditions may distort one's self-image and hinder the ability to experience life with a sense of completeness, and the ability to connect with others.

The rewards of nurtureing your sense of wholeness

The pursuit of feeling whole is a crucial aspect of holistic well-being, influencing our mental, emotional, and physical health, as well as our relationships and the overall quality of our lives. It impacts our ability to live a complete life, with fewer regrets and pain.

A life that includes self-care, meaningful relationships, and a connection to one's authentic self can contribute to a sense of wholeness in the midst of modern challenges.

When we feel complete and integrated within ourselves, there is a reduction in internal conflicts and a greater capacity to manage stress. This, in turn, fosters mental resilience and emotional stability.

Addressing feelings of incompleteness in our modern world may involve:

• The reevaluation of your values—what you are prioritising in life

• Nurturing authentic connections

• Practicing mindfulness

• Finding a balance between the demands of contemporary society and personal well-being

• Get professional support—consider alternative therapies (like Self Directed Healing, Kinesiology, or Somatic Healing if you are unsatisfied with traditional ‘talking therapies’ and/or prescription drugs. These methods of healing work with the unconscious mind and healing intelligence of the body—not just the conscious mind. Consult your GP doctor before making any changes or engaging in therapy.

5 reasons to nurture your sense of wholeness

Healthy Relationships

Feeling whole allows us to engage in relationships from a place of strength rather than seeking validation or fulfillment from others. 

This healthier approach to relationships often leads to more satisfying and sustainable connections with others.

Personal fulfillment

When we feel whole, we are more likely to pursue our passions and utilize our unique talents. This contributes to a sense of purpose and accomplishment, fostering personal growth and the realization of our full potential.

Adaptability and resilience

Wholeness provides a solid foundation for adaptability and resilience in the face of life's challenges. It enables us to navigate uncertainties with a greater sense of self-assurance and the flexibility to learn and grow from experiences.

Physical health

There is a well-established connection between mental and physical health. Feeling whole contributes to a positive mindset, which can positively impact physical well-being through stress reduction and the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices.

Meaning and direction

A sense of wholeness often comes with clarity about one's values, goals, and purpose in life. This clarity provides a roadmap for meaningful living, offering direction and guiding decisions toward a fulfilling and purpose-driven existence.

How to feel complete. Tips for living authenticity 

Addressing feelings of incompleteness often involves a combination of self-reflection, therapy, coaching and intentional efforts to build a strong sense of self. 

Embracing self-compassion, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support from trusted individuals or professionals can be valuable steps toward cultivating a more holistic and fulfilling sense of identity and well-being.

Here’s an idea. Choose one of the tips below to focus on in the next few weeks and see what happens. Check in with how you are feeling.

1. Connection: Whether through meaningful relationships or shared experiences, the tapestry of life gains richness when woven with threads of genuine connection.

   Reach out to someone that lifts you up and fills your energetic cup. Have a chat or do something together. Let them know you appreciate them.

2. Creativity:  Just as the vibrant palette of an artist, adds hues to our existence, engaging in creative pursuits, like art, music, or any form of self-expression, allows us to tap into a wellspring of vitality!

   Get creative, set a creative goal and experience a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Life coaches (like Authentic State Coaching) are a perfect match for helping you set, break through blocks and keep accountable to realistic goals. 
   

3. Courage: Embracing challenges and overcoming fears opens new dimensions, contributing to a deep sense of self-empowerment and resilience.

   What have you been putting off? Propel yourself beyond your comfort zone--get support to move forward if you need it. 
   

4. Clarity: Understanding our values, passions, and purpose provides a compass for navigating the complexities, offering a steadying force amidst the uncertainties. Why not reach out to a life coach for a guiding light through life's labyrinth, so you can have a clear sense of direction. 
   

5. Nature: Immersing ourselves in the natural world fosters a profound connection to something greater. It grounds s in the present. The natural world is healing and giving.
   
   Where can you take yourself to connect with nature? Take yourself to a park, a forest, a garden, a body of water and let yourself connect to nature, the way you might if you were just vibing with a friend or partner. Listen and watch. Notice the small things. Check in with your feelings.

Collectively, these threads of connection, creativity, courage, clarity, and the soothing embrace of nature can create a harmonious symphony that is you.

Get in touch if you’d like a hand to move forward with greater wholeness or authenticity.

Sasha x

How to trust your intuition

Remember, no one can do you better than you. Learning to trust your intuition - notes from a life coach

Intuition is your very own wellspring of inspiration, guidance, creativity and innovation. 

 In a noisy world where conformity often overshadows individual expression, intuitive thinking can lead to groundbreaking ideas and originality.

Living in a world of  ‘should’s’ and comparisons to others, the ability to tap into your intuition becomes a lifeline for a happy life. It encourages you to trust your unique perspectives and contribute authentically to your life and the world around you.

Nine reasons why intuition is crucial in a noisy world

1. Authentic decision-making

Amidst the noise of external influences, intuition serves as an internal compass, guiding you towards decisions that align with your authentic self. Your intuitioin helps cut through the external clutter and make choices that resonate with your core values and desires.

2. Resilience in the face of uncertainty

In a world where change is constant and uncertainty is inevitable, intuition provides a source of inner stability. People who trust their instincts are often more resilient in the face of challenges. They can adapt to changing circumstances with a sense of confidence grounded in their authentic understanding of self.

3. Personal fulfillment and well-being

Living authentically is closely linked to personal fulfillment and well-being. When you honor your inner truth and follow your path aligned with your values, it contributes to a profound sense of satisfaction. Intuition plays a key role in this process by guiding choices that lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

4. Navigating complexity with simplicity

The noise of the world often brings complexity, but intuition has a way of simplifying things. It cuts through the unnecessary layers, helping you focus on what truly matters. This simplicity is invaluable in decision-making, problem-solving, and maintaining a sense of clarity in the midst of chaos.

5. Building authentic connections

Authentic relationships thrive on genuine connections. Intuition aids you in recognizing the authenticity in others and in yourself. It fosters empathy, deepens connections, and allows for more meaningful interactions in a world that sometimes values surface-level connections over genuine bonds. 

6. Enhancing creativity and innovation

In the cacophony of daily life, it's easy to lose touch with our innermost feelings and desires. A life coach or therapist, through thoughtful questioning and active listening, helps individuals delve into their inner world, unlocking layers of self-awareness.

7. Creating clarity amidst noise

In a world bombarded with information, opinions, and societal expectations, developing intuition is a necessary beacon of clarity. Your life coach can support you in cutting through the noise, helping you discern your own voices from the external chatter. 

We facilitate conversations that explore your values, passions, and goals. As your coach we can assist in shaping a clear understanding of what truly matters to you, then help you to set micro-goals--with accountability and habit changing tools. 

8. Unraveling limiting beliefs

Often, intuitive insights are clouded by limiting beliefs acquired over time. A life coach can be a skilled navigator through the maze of self-doubt, gently unraveling these beliefs. 

Through introspective dialogue and targeted exercises, you gain awareness of thought patterns that might hinder authentic living. As your coach, we support the process of reframing perspectives, paving the way for a more intuitive and empowering mindset.

9. Building trust in your inner wisdom

One of the primary functions of a life coach is to encourage your trust in your inner wisdom. Too many people, amidst the noise of external expectations, tend to overlook or dismiss their intuitive nudges. 

How a coach will support you to trust your intuition

A coach cultivates an environment where you can feel and encouraged to acknowledge and trust your healthy ‘instincts’. This process involves celebrating instances where intuition has guided positive outcomes, reinforcing the belief in one's innate wisdom.

1. Aligning actions with values

Living authentically is synonymous with aligning actions with core values. 

A life coach collaborates with you to identify and articulate these values. By exploring how daily choices and behaviors align with these values, clients gain clarity on areas where adjustments can be made. This alignment fosters a sense of congruence, where actions reflect the true essence of the individual.

2. Mindfulness practices for intuitive awareness

Therapeutic approaches often incorporate mindfulness practices to enhance intuitive awareness. Whether through meditation, mindful breathing, or other techniques, therapists and coaches can guide you in being present with your thoughts and emotions. Mindfulness facilitates a deeper connection with your inner truth, allowing for a more conscious and intentional approach to decision-making and living.

3. Emotional exploration and expression

Therapists and coaches create spaces where you can explore and express your emotions freely. 

Intuition often surfaces through feelings, and by navigating the landscape of emotions, therapists help clients decode the messages within. This emotional exploration contributes to a more nuanced understanding of oneself and fosters authenticity in emotional expression.

4. Overcoming fear of judgment

The fear of judgment can be a significant barrier to living authentically. A life coach or therapist provides a non-judgmental space where you can freely express your thoughts and desires without fear of condemnation. This acceptance is a crucial element in helping people break free from societal expectations and live in harmony with their inner truth.

5. Goal setting aligned with authentic desires

None of us want to fall victim to living a life half lived. Coaches guide individuals in setting goals that align with their authentic desires rather than external expectations. By breaking down aspirations into actionable steps, clients are empowered to pursue paths that resonate with their inner truth. The goal-setting process becomes a reflection of personal values and contributes to a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Is your intuition calling for a life coach or therapist?

In the bustling symphony of life, a life coach or therapist becomes a valuable conductor, helping you tune into the melody of your own intuition.

Through thoughtful questioning, empathetic listening, and skillful guidance, we empower you to rediscover your authentic self. 

Developing your intuition can be a transformative journey—one that leads to a deeper understanding of your values, passions, and purpose in the midst of life's cacophony.

Do you want to increase your trust of your intuition? Get in touch.

The role of authenticity in change

Be honest. Have you ever thought: “This feels wrong”?  Or, “I wish I could start.” Or, “If only I could stop?”.

Have you ever asked yourself, “How can I change my life?” or even, “How can I change the world?”.

You're not alone. We all have wants and needs. And some of us have inspirational dreams that pull at the heart and tug at the mind.

The truth is, there is always something you want to move towards, and something that you want to move away from. That’s part of being human. That’s how we are designed.

Change is a necessary part of life here on earth

Life is always changing and evolving. Take a look at your front garden, your news feed or in the mirror. Change can be slow, but it is everywhere. 

At a human level, the need for change emerges from your need to live a more fulfilling existence. Change, though sometimes challenging, can be a pathway towards your heart's desire and deepest wishes. 

Change offers the promise of greater happiness, contentment, success and a more authentic life. Change forces us to adapt, to learn, and to expand our horizons. It invites us to shed the burdens of the past and embrace new opportunities and perspectives.

Choose to do things differently. Choose to be different. 

The first step to change is getting honest with yourself. When we cut through all the noise and expectations of life, we hear our own truth--this is the beginnings of living a life fully lived.

This means checking into how you really feel, your deeper truth, not just what you like, or what feels good at the moment. It means being willing to be open to something different than you've always done, or your parents or mates think is right or 'normal'.

Change asks us to see things as they really are… it means admitting you may be on the wrong track, or have hurt yourself or others. It means being vulnerable in admitting to yourself (and maybe someone else) that today, you choose to do things differently. 

Yes, change can be uncomfortable. But the cost of not changing and evolving when life asks you to, or when you are stuck or hurting, can be more painful… sometimes with serious consequences. 

Psychologist say…

Psychologists have written broadly about the topic of self-deception. It's hard-wired into us. Self-deception can be a survival mechanism, but it can keep us stagnant. Living in denial can be a comfortable refuge. Most of us are well practised at self-deception. 

It shields us from the discomfort of acknowledging our flaws and the need for change. Not only that, but it protects the 'precious' ego that keeps us fed and housed.

However, it is in honest self-reflection that our most profound transformations take root. 

The truth is self-deception might feel comfortable, but it is not your friend

Self-deception can be a comfortable refuge, shielding us from the discomfort of acknowledging our flaws and the need for change. However, it is in these honest self-reflections that our most profound transformations take root.

The courage to listen deeply

Often the difficult part about being honest without ourselves is having the courage to deeply listen to ourselves, or giving yourself the time and space to connect with your most authentic state. 

Coaches are great at holding space and asking gentle, though direct questions to get to the root of what’s really going on inside you. We can support personal navigation and accountability towards positive change and a life fully lived. 

It is essential to recognise that embracing change is not merely a choice; it is a fundamental to honouring who we are. It is fundamental if you want to live out your purpose or calling.

All things change. Either with or without your influence or control.

The truth is that when we resist change, you still change. But instead of taking steps towards your truth, towards a life of less pain and more contentment, the resistance creates tension, stress, worry, and regret. Like a bird flying upwind, or fish swimming upstream, energy is wasted.

Change is the bridge that connects who we are to who we can become.

Nuff said? Authentic State Coaching supports people who want or need change in their lives. Get in touch.

Sasha x

Living authentically in the now—the ‘isness’ of life

Alan Watts, philosopher, writer and entertainer

What is ‘isness’? In simple terms, ‘isness’ is existence.

At the heart of isness is the art of living in the present moment. Living in the ‘now’ is one of the secrets to living authentically.

Are you living your life or thinking your life?

Alan Watts, the philosopher, writer and entertainer known for his interpretation of Eastern philosophy, said,

“The mystery of life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.”

Watts reminds us to think less and embrace this reality as a unique experience. Because life is an experience, not just a concept and something to think your way through. Right?

Are you taking time to savour precious moments? Are you absorbing your experience with all your senses—seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling, resonating? Or are you thinking your way though life? Do you think that you think too much?

Less resistance means less stress

Spiritual leader, Eckhart Tolle, known for his teachings on mindfulness and presence, emphasises the transformative power of embracing "now." Tolle is quoted to have said,

“Accepting means you allow yourself to feel whatever it is you are feeling at that moment.”

With acceptance we experience contentment. You can’t argue with what is. Well, you can, but if you do, Tolle says you will experience an emotional/mental suffering.

Acceptance doesn’t mean, you can’t accept things as they are without wanting something different. We can accept the now and want something different for our future—the ‘contrast’ can be a force of motivation. The key is to balance experiencing the very moment you are in with acceptance, as it is, with a sense of allowing, without an inner turmoil of thinking things should be different at that moment. …Get it?

Tolle reminds us to accept life as it is, and to accept our feelings as they arise, which is sometimes easier said than done.

Feeling emotion is a natural and healthy thing to do

Many of us are not taught that it’s not ok to feel our feelings. But the truth is when we do allow ourselves to feel our emotions, they can pass through us like a natural wave of energy, rather than bottle up inside us like a pressure valve, exploding uncontrolled any moment.

Get in touch Authentic State Coaching if you would like to learn how to safely feel and move through your emotions.

The isness of being your authentic self

Living an authentic life is inseparable from the concept of isness. When you fully embrace your genuine self and honour your unique journey, then you're swimming in the lush. calm sea of isness.

Isness is about accepting all your quirks, your talents, and your flaws with open, accepting and forgiving arms.

Acceptance is key. Acceptance of what is, and who and where you are. In knowing who we are, we need to get honest with ourselves.

In the words of spiritual teacher Ram Dass,

“The quieter you become, the more you can hear the symphony of ‘isness’ in your soul.”

Here we are reminded to take time to be still, to be able to hear our truth. Our bodies and spirit speak to us, not only our mind. Agree?

Wayne Dyer, the self-help author and motivational speaker, said

“Miracles come in moments. Be ready and willing.”

I believe that this is our most authentic state—when we are present and alert to the moment, rather than anxious about the future, or weighed down from the past.  In these moments, we are most switched on to our personal power.

The problem can be that most of us struggle to be present in the moment. This is because we carry the baggage or learnt or inherited pains and hurts of the past. Also, many of us haven't learned how to quieten the wild, looping mind or how to calm the restless, needy body. 

Without doing the work and learning to honour our feelings, calm the mind, shift past hurts and be still amongst the chaos, then living in the moment can be a struggle or not ever experiencing in a lifetime.

Success and isness

Mind-body healer and author, Deepak Chopra, might agree that the path to success is paved with isness. 

Chopra said,

“In the process of letting go, you will lose many things from the past, but you will find yourself. It will be a permanent Self, rooted in awareness and creativity. Once you have captured this, you have captured the world.”

In other words, let go, and life unfolds. Again, easier said than done right? Letting go takes tools, and practice, and often therapy or coaching. I’m a firm believer in we all must find the right path and support for ourselves. Life is not one size fits all.

Isness and the arts

The arts embrace living in the moment, with isness playing a vibrant and essential role in the life of the artist. 

Imagine chatting with Pablo Picasso, sipping on espresso in an avant-garde café in Barcelona or Paris. He'd remind you that isness is the vibrant core of artistic success.

Picasso said

“It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child.”

Picasso knew the value of living in the moment, just as children do. He embraced the spontaneity and curiosity of a child—this is where magic and truth can be found.

In the grand tapestry of life, isness is the vibrant thread that weaves success and authenticity together.  Spiritual leaders and art masters remind us that the key to success isn't a distant treasure to chase; it's a joyful embrace of the present moment. 

So, let's raise our cups to the isness, for it's in this very moment that the canvas of success and authenticity is painted, one stroke at a time. 

Sasha x

---

If something here resonates, you don’t have to make sense of it on your own. → Explore working together

Sasha at Authentic State Coaching works with individuals across the world online via Zoom. Authentic State is based on the Central Coast, NSW north of Sydney, Australia.

---

Leadership, honesty and authenticity—inspiration from 8 visionary entrepreneurs

Honesty is like the Renaissance period of art—it's an era of enlightenment and transformation. 

Just like the artistic and intellectual rebirth that swept through Europe centuries ago, we're entering an era where honesty and authenticity reign supreme.

We are increasingly valuing honesty in business, culture, and relationships—including the relationship we have with ourselves, our mental health and wellbeing.

But we are living in a paradoxical world, full of contradiction and irony. 

We value transparency and truthfulness, however, with the rise of new technology, AI and social media we live in an increasingly hyperreal (fake) world. Life often focuses on surface appearances, packed with illusions on what is real, true and substantial.

As we move into the depths of the 21st century, it’s important to do the work to keep grounded and be honest with ourselves amongst all the changes.

With honesty brings change in the world, and with ourselves. 

It's crucial to remember that being honest with oneself is the starting point for transformation.

Recognising your strengths, weaknesses and priorities is like choosing the right colours for your canvas—it sets the tone for the entire artwork.

Being honest with others is like a mirror—reflecting your values and beliefs. Values and beliefs underpin everything in your life. From the reason you are where you are surrounded with the people and things you have, to why you experience conflict, and more. A good life coach (like Authentic State Coaching) can help you unpack your life and values. They can support you to get clear on your life values, and help you take steps to ensure your life is aligned to the things that you believe are important in this short and precious life of yours.

We are witnessing the rise of a new type of leader in our workplaces, businesses and culture. Our new visionary leaders are rejecting old ways of communicating and keeping it real.

Let's draw inspiration from some visionary entrepreneurs who have harnessed the power of honesty and authenticity.

1. Steve Jobs: The authentic innovator

The co-founder of Apple Inc. was renowned for his unwavering commitment to honesty in product design.

Jobs was unapologetically honest about his belief that great design should be simple and beautiful. This honesty with himself and his vision led to iconic products that changed the world.

2. Jessica Alba: The honest businesswoman

Actress Jessica Alba didn't just play the role of a businesswoman; she became one. With The Honest Company, she's on a mission to provide safe, eco-friendly products for families.

Her dedication to transparency and ethical business practices is a testament to her commitment to making the world a better place.

3. Simon Sinek: The why guy

Simon Sinek, famous for his "Start with Why" philosophy, emphasises the importance of honesty in business. He encourages leaders to be authentic and transparent about their purpose and values.

Sinek believes that when leaders are honest about why they do what they do, it inspires both their teams and customers, leading to sustainable success.

4. Brené Brown: The vulnerability advocate

Brené Brown, a renowned researcher and speaker, has made vulnerability her superpower. Her candid exploration of shame, vulnerability, and courage has transformed the way people connect, both personally and in business.

Brown's work is a testament to the transformative power of honesty and authenticity.

5. Warren Buffett: The honest investor

Warren Buffett, one of the most successful investors of all time, is known for his honest self-assessment. He doesn't invest in businesses he doesn't understand, and he's candid about his investment strategy.

His honesty with himself has led to a lifetime of remarkable financial success.

6. Richard Branson: The maverick entrepreneur

Richard Branson, the maverick behind the Virgin Group, is synonymous with adventure and authenticity. He's honest about his love for risk-taking and his knack for turning ideas into thriving businesses.

Branson's life is a testament to the liberating power of embracing your true self and living life to the fullest

7. Sara Blakely: The honest businesswoman

Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx, is candid about the struggles and setbacks she faced while building her empire. Her honesty about her journey has made her a relatable figure in the world of entrepreneurship.

Blakely's authenticity and humour shine through as she inspires others to embrace their imperfections and pursue their truth.

8. Anthony Bourdain: The rock 'n' roll chef

Anthony Bourdain taught us that food is more than just sustenance; it's a cultural adventure. With his laid-back charm and a knack for storytelling, Bourdain was brutally honest about the grit and glory of the restaurant industry.

His authenticity was his secret sauce, inspiring us to savour life's unfiltered flavours.

What can we learn from these trailblazers who embrace honesty and authenticity? 

• Be true to your ideas, even if they challenge the status quo. Honesty gives life to bold ideas, ignites innovation, and fosters deep connections.

• When we are transparent about our values and vulnerabilities, it fosters connection and encourages transformation.

• Recognising your strengths and weaknesses allows you to make wise choices and thrive.

• Honesty in life, is the most delicious way to savour success.

So! Here’s my truth. I’m here for a greater you and a greater world! Get in touch if you’d like to explore creating a life more aligned to your own values and truth.

Sasha x

Elevate Your Life with Strategic Intention Setting—a guide From Authentic State Coaching

Learn the value and science of intention setting—and download a free intention visualisation.

---

In our fast-paced and often chaotic lives, finding ways to stay focused, maintain clarity, and achieve success can feel like an uphill battle.

Setting an intention is the deliberate act of defining what you want to achieve and how you want to show up in a specific situation, project, or even your daily life. It's about consciously choosing your mindset and approach to align with your goals and values. Intentions go beyond traditional goal-setting; they are about how you want to feel and be while pursuing your objectives.

You can harness the power of intention setting before you start your day, your week, a meeting, task, year or practically any time you start something new.

Intention Setting—a Life Hack

Intention setting is simple, but done right (by keeping your intent top of mind across time), it can be an incredibly powerful life hack.

Setting your intention helps to focus your mind at both a conscious and unconscious level.

Intention setting contains energy, emotion, imagery, and meaning that you might not have previously discovered. It can teach you, about you. It helps counteract the clutter of the mind, and the unhelpful ‘should’s’ we often set ourselves.

By setting your intention, you tap into your intuition and harness the power of your unconscious mind (your wisdom-powerhouse) to look for opportunities.

The Science Behind Intentions

The power of setting intentions is not merely anecdotal; it has a scientific basis. Neuroscientific research has shown that when you set an intention, you activate specific neural pathways associated with that intention. This mental priming increases your awareness of relevant opportunities and choices, making it more likely for you to take action aligned with your goals.

Intentions engage the reticular activating system (RAS) in your brain. The RAS acts as a filter for incoming information, highlighting what you consider important. When you set an intention, your RAS begins to prioritise data that supports that intention, effectively boosting your focus and awareness.

How to Set Your Intention

Step 1: Trust your Intuition – always, always, always trust your intuition. Ok?

What is your intuition? Your intuition is the first thought that enters your mind once you have cleared the internal ‘judgement’. It is the little voice in your head (not the loud critic, but the quiet wisdom). Trust the impression, thought or hunch that comes to you.

Your intuition will speak to you. It might take time or practice. Listening with a clear mind and a trusting heart is sometimes the tricky part – you’ve got this. Trust yourself.

Step 2: Close your eyes. Take several deep breaths and connect with your body. Listen into your body.

Step 3: Ask yourself “What do I want for my self in the coming year?”

Choose one to three words for your intention for your coming year.

Let yourself feel into the question. Allow your truth to rise to the surface.

Once you have your intention, ask the second question.

Step 4: Ask yourself “To achieve (insert your intention word), what do I have to let go of?”. Ask and allow for a word, or message, to come through for you.

Step 5: Ask yourself “What am I going to do in the next 12 months to achieve (insert your intention word)?”. Ask and allow for a word, or message, to come through for you.

Tips for Intention Setting

1. Be Specific: Your intentions should be clear and specific. Instead of a vague intention like "I want to be successful," say, "I intend to excel in my career by achieving a promotion within the next year."

2. Use Positive Language: Phrase your intentions positively, focusing on what you want to achieve rather than what you want to avoid.

3. Set Realistic Goals: While intentions are powerful, they should be realistic and achievable. Set yourself up for success by setting attainable milestones.

4. Visualise Your Intentions: Create a mental image of yourself embodying your intentions. Visualisation can reinforce your commitment.

5. Write Them Down: Put your intentions in writing. This act of commitment can make your intentions feel more tangible and concrete.

6. Review Daily: Make it a habit to review your intentions daily, ideally in the morning or before important tasks. This reinforces your commitment and keeps your focus sharp. Remember, your mind is your responsibility to feed, clean and program your mind.

Get Your Free Intention Setting Meditation

If this is new to you, I’ve created a 6 minute guided Intention Setting audio meditation for you! All you need to do is just listen and allow.

Enjoy the process. If it helps, think of this like a playful little experiment!

Be sure to join me on Facebook, to get more inspiring tips for a greater you, and a greater world.