Just Do It…Nike’s famous slogan is a great thought, but it does not go far enough. Like many similar thoughts it can end with thoughts [good intentions] but no results.

What’s wrong with good intentions, and why would the road to hell be paved with them?

Consider the following riddle…

Three frogs were on a log and one decided it would jump off.  How many frogs were left on the log?

If your answer is two, chances are you are less effective in your endeavors than you could be.

The correct answer is three. Just because a frog decides to jump off does not mean that it follows through and actually jumps. Too many people have good ideas and make good choices, but do not add necessary action in order to effect change.

Good intentions are an important initial step, but good intentions without action are meaningless. What’s worse is that good intentions can lead to a false sense of accomplishment. Otherwise why would so many overweight and out of shape people wear t-shirts bearing Just Do It while they sit on the couch and watch sports on TV. Instead, they should be out there Just Doing It!

Intentionality is about action. Little actions, which are as easy to do as they are not to do. But because of inertia they tend not to get done. The principle of inertia says that a body in motion tends to stay in motion and a body at rest tends to stay at rest.

People who practice intentionality start with good intentions, but are resolved to take little steps knowing that little actions lead to big change over time. 

Consider the story of the penny (read it at MyPennyStory.com) that becomes a billion pennies in just 30 days.

The practice of intentionality involves:

• A philosophy aligned with desired results
• A plan that can achieve the desired results
• A resolve that overcomes inertia and takes little steps in line with the plan

When I turned 50 I discovered intentionality and it not only enabled me to lose 50 lbs but has helped me to keep the weight off for seven years. Intentionality is not a diet, but a lifestyle. A commitment to action. Little actions each day, like taking the stairs instead of escalators and elevators.

Almost anything can be achieved through a practice of intentionality.

Herb Mast is a Leadership Coach and Employee Engagement Specialist. Learn how he can assist you in implementing the principles and concepts presented here.