Few people give much thought to the intentions behind their actions, or their intentions for a project or even their life. And yet your underlying intentions influence everything you think, say, and do. So it's true — by your intentions, you will be known.

It makes a lot of sense, then, to become aware of the intentions that lurk behind your daily thought-habits, the things you say, how you behave, etc. Initially, taking a close look at your intentions can be a bit unpleasant, because you're likely to have to "own" some less-than-admirable ones.

For example, you might look at why you said something to another person, and find that your intention — far from being skillful or "nice" — was actually to make the other person feel less confident. More than a few unexplored or unconscious intentions are like this.

Fortunately, by taking a look and simply intending differently, you can create an almost miraculous shift in your interactions with others and what you seem to attract to you, even if the shift is something that you alone notice.

So what is your intention? Carry that question throughout the coming month, asking it each morning, before each conversation or meeting, or even when envisioning what you'd like to create and attract for yourself during the coming year.

Remember, by your intentions, you'll be known. How do you want to be known?

Want to browse more Ivy Sea wisdom and mastery tips? Check out our Mastery-Tips Archive.