What is an intention?

An intention is a guiding principle for how you want to be, live, and show up in the world or in any area of your life.

Some of OUT Maine’s staff intentions for 2022

“As a cisgender person, I will introduce myself using name and pronouns in situations where it may be uncomfortable. I want pronoun introductions to be the norm. I have the privilege to talk about important things like pronouns that would otherwise feel more uncomfortable to other folks.”

“My intention is to be in the present moment and be mindful of the conversations I’m having with others. Providing extra support through actively listening to others’ needs.”

“My intentions for the year are to continue to keep an open mind and be willing to learn new things.”

“I will challenge my understanding of what makes a gender and explore the root causes of why I sometimes misgender people.”

“The increasing divisions in our communities make me sad and worried for our young people’s future. I intend to help counter this trend by consciously spreading kindness, acceptance and inclusivity to all youth who are struggling with being “othered” in their intersectional identities.”

Suggested Intentions from OUT Maine and our youth

• Commit to validating LGBTQ+ friends. Listen and truly hear them as the best way to ensure a respectful and successful friendship.
• Listen to more podcasts by LGBTQ+ people.
• Read more fact-based news articles by and about LGBTQ+ people of color.
• If support is needed, try to listen to what the body is saying it needs.
• Identify one person/place/object that helps ground oneself in the body.

Intentions put into practice

Intentions are a wonderful way to help us stay grounded and reconnect with what matters most.

• Silently stating the intention at the beginning of the day or week
• Revisit it often and when needed. 
• Call it to the center of the mind when feeling off center and need to reset.