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Creating Space … To Define Your Destination

Leading With VOICCE® Series.

Imagine telling your car: "Don't cross the yellow lines, and don't run into the car in front of you."


Your brain is always navigating. The question is: Did you give it a destination, or just a list of what to avoid?


In last week's article, we talked about how the Reticular Activating System (RAS) helps us filter out the noise and shine a spotlight on what we have determined is most important to us. Language plays a critical role in that. But did you know, it's imperative that you call to mind what you DO want, not what you DON'T.


We need to understand what we don't want so we can acknowledge the current situation or associated feelings. But if we stay there, well, we stay there. In order to leverage the power of RAS, we must focus on what we do want to be true. This is why things like affirmations, intentions, and manifesting can be so powerful. However, this type of influence requires your active participation. 


Our brains respond to direction. And you're the leader of your own life. You hold the key.

In my work, I've witnessed just how easy it is for us to express what we don't want.


  • "I am tired of being exhausted."

  • "I don't want to feel stressed all the time anymore."

  • "I don't want another year like last year."


When setting intention words - the sentiment also comes from the same place. Again, awareness is key, but it's the reframe that mattes. Three of the most common themes that I hear during this time of year are: Balance, Boundaries, and Joy. So let's take a moment and dive deeper. 

Balance


We often start from a place of - "I don't want to feel so scattered or exhausted this year." Let's consider a reframe. 


What DO you want to feel? 

How does life change when you feel balanced?

Perhaps the new statement looks something like: "Balance feels like I am able to have mornings that nurture me, and evenings that feel connected with my loved ones." Now your brain has a specific target. And you can choose a word from this place of clarity. 'Balance' could be your word. But you may also find that you feel a pull toward something like: Reflection, Slow, Connection, or Presence. 

Boundaries


Boundaries is a big one. And it tends to bring up a lot of strong emotions. It may initially sound like. "I am tired of being pulled in a million directions." or "I am tired of feeling guilty for saying 'no'." 

What becomes possible when you can hold firm, healthy boundaries?

A possible reframe becomes: “Boundaries look like saying yes with intention, no without guilt, and honoring my capacity without explanation.” Your brain now has specific guidance for what you are striving for. 'Boundaries' may be the perfect fit for your intention word. You could also choose to explore a word like: Courage. Alignment. Conviction, or Honor.

Joy


This is a big one for me. I've been on my own quiet journey to understand this one a bit deeper. This one is often met with sentiments like "What joy?" or "I don't even have the energy to imagine what that would feel like." This comes from a space of feeling depleted or exhausted. Imagine inviting a pause, perhaps a calm morning before the day is in full swing. Ask:

What would joy look or feel like for me?

Joy could sound something like: “Joy looks like moments of lightness, laughter without pressure, and doing things simply because they feel good.” Other words that may resonate are: Zest. Laugh. Light. Be.

You are the creator.


Setting an intention for the year has come to become one of my absolute favorite practices. I am the creator of my own story. I hold the pen. I also recognize that I have the option to modify or pivot any time I need to. So if you are interested in this practice, please give it a try. 

Release the pressure to get it just right. 

Start where you are.


Trust your instincts.


Rewrite the story as you go. 


There are no rules, really. Slow down and listen to what's already within. Trust your instincts.

Lean in, and learn as you go.

The Practice

If this week feels full already, don’t overcomplicate it.


Take five quiet minutes and ask yourself:

What do I want to experience more of next year - and what does that look like in real life?

Your word will come from there.


Does this resonate? If so, I invite you to join me for one of my favorite experiences of the year: Word Up! 2026 - Craft Your Intention. Align with Your Values. Envision Your Year.


This experience is carefully curated to blend the power of executive coaching, mindful intention setting, and powerful visioning to life so that you can step into 2026 with greater clarity and unwavering focus.


Thank you for your presence. I am so excited to continue this journey with you!


With gratitude, Tian.


Tian Philson Leadership, Wellness & Mindset Coach | Creator of the VOICCE® Decision Making & Empowerment Framework | Helping leaders go inward so they can go upward.


I am currently enrolling for the VOICCE®Leadership Intensive. A powerful 8-week experience designed to help leaders who are spread too thin move from chaos to clear, calm, confident leadership - at work and at home. 


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