Creating Powerful Intentions: Seven Steps to Achieving Your Dreams- My Marathon Story

Achieving a lifelong dream requires more than just scribbling down goals on a sticky note—it demands powerful intentions that guide every step of the journey. I learned this firsthand when I completed my first marathon at the age of 64. What started as a dream in 2014 turned into a personal journey of resilience, focus, and adaptability.

Through this experience, I discovered a structured approach to transform ambitious goals into powerful intentions. Here are seven steps I used to turn my dream into a reality, along with practical advice and inspiration from others who’ve done the same.

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Step 1: "Because You…"

Uncover the Core Reason Behind Your Goal

In 2014, I began running recreationally, and a desire started to take root—to run a full marathon someday. My motivation? To prove to myself that age should never be a barrier to achieving one’s goals. This deep-rooted ‘why’ became the driving force behind my journey.

Advice: Understand why this goal truly matters to you. Is it a personal challenge, a means of self-discovery, or a chance to inspire others? Knowing your deeper ‘why’ will fuel you through tough times.

Inspiration: Colonel Sanders didn’t start KFC until he was 65, after facing countless rejections. His unwavering belief in his recipe and his own potential kept him going. Finding your ‘why’ is crucial to building strong intentions.

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Step 2: "Therefore You…"

Identify the Benefits of Reaching Your Goal

My intention was not only to finish a marathon but to feel a sense of accomplishment that defied age-related stereotypes. Crossing the finish line symbolized more than physical endurance; it was a testament to grit and resilience.

Advice: Get clear on the benefits you stand to gain. What will this goal add to your life, your sense of self, or your relationships? When you see the larger picture, your goal gains greater significance.

Inspiration: Nelson Mandela’s struggle was not just for personal freedom; it was for the liberation of an entire nation. Understanding the broader impact of your goals makes your intentions even more powerful.

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Step 3: "Whenever You…"

Define the Context Where Your Intentions Play Out

During my training, I frequently visualized myself crossing the finish line, feeling the sense of pride and accomplishment. These visualizations kept me motivated during every long run and training session.

Advice: Imagine yourself in the scenarios where your goal comes to life. Whether it’s a professional milestone or a personal achievement, place yourself in that moment of triumph. This will make the journey feel more tangible and real.

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Step 4: "And That Means You…"

Explore the Broader Impact of Your Goal

The marathon wasn’t just about proving something to myself; it was about inspiring others to realize that with determination, anything is possible. My training regimen was rigorous—running three days a week, strength training, and following a strict diet to prepare my body for the race.

Advice: Look at how your goal could impact those around you. Will it inspire your family, motivate your colleagues, or contribute to your community? A goal with broader impact is more compelling.

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Step 5: "Which Means You…"

Expand on the Impact to Connect with Other Goals

Running the marathon led to both physical and mental transformation. Each race I completed, whether it was a 10K or a half marathon, was a stepping stone. It wasn’t just about finishing a race; it was about constantly improving and pushing my limits.

Advice: Think about how achieving your goal can open doors to other opportunities. What new skills, connections, or experiences will it unlock? Seeing your goal as a launchpad will keep you motivated.

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Step 6: "Although You…"

Acknowledge Challenges and Obstacles

The journey wasn’t without its setbacks. At the 30 km mark of my marathon, I felt nausea and exhaustion setting in. I had to adjust my goal from hitting a specific time to simply finishing the race with grace. I didn’t let the obstacles derail me; instead, I adapted and pushed through.

Advice: Acknowledge potential challenges and prepare to adapt your goals as needed. Obstacles don’t mean failure—they’re just part of the process. Flexibility in your approach will ensure you stay on track.

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Step 7: "In the Same Way That You…"

Link to Past Successes to Boost Confidence

Each time I hit a new milestone—whether it was a faster 10K time or finishing a half marathon—I built confidence. Reflecting on these past successes reminded me that I was capable of more, pushing me to take on the full marathon.

Advice: Draw from your past experiences and achievements. Remind yourself of moments when you overcame challenges. Let those victories bolster your confidence as you take on new ones.

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Final Thoughts

Intentions aren’t just abstract desires; they are the driving force behind every action and decision. Setting clear and powerful intentions helps you stay focused, adapt to challenges, and push forward when the going gets tough.

Remember: Setting goals is only the first step. To truly succeed, you need strong intentions that connect with your core motivations and push you through obstacles. Whether you’re tackling a marathon or a professional goal, having intentions rooted in purpose and clarity will help you achieve the extraordinary.

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A special thanks to Lora de Vries, Sarah Dawn Tunis, and Wayne Dyer for their invaluable contributions and insights on creating powerful intentions, which inspired the ideas shared in this blog.