For the last several years, I’ve shared a daily intention/affirmation with an accountability partner as a way to be more mindful each day as part of an annual intention/goal setting process. I love this time of year for this very reason! Then today, I read this provocative quote: “Do not imagine that the good you intend will balance the evil you perform” (attributed to the stand up comedian, Norm MacDonald).

Good intentions pave the road to hell – or so we are taught, right? Don’t good intentions also pave the road to heaven? Either way behaviors or actions are key to the good intentions creating something positive. Responding mindfully rather than reacting unconsciously is where I’m aiming this year and that is both a powerful intention AND it requires consistently acting from my best self. To me, this honors both a full-permission-to-fail human endeavor and a spiritual completeness that holds all beings as naturally creative, resourceful and whole. What a forgiving, honoring and potential-inspiring combination!

Keep in mind this formula: Good Intentions + Mindful Behaviors = The Road of Success. Where will your good intentions lead you this year and what behaviors will help get you there? What kind of leader might you be with this model in front of you? Enjoy the journey!