Intention Definition: the desired consequence of directed energy

Synonyms: aim, objective, goal

Added context from Hanna & Lizzie:

When someone is intentional, they purposefully direct their energy to attempt to achieve some desired outcome. Not every action has intent behind it. Many norms performed without deconstruction most likely lack intent, which is why deconstructing these norms is an essential step in becoming more intentional. This is particularly necessary when participating in a non-normative relationship structure such as CNM. The intent behind different forms of nonmonogamous relationships is part of what can make them consensual or not.

If you’ve ever been welcomed into a formal “safe space,” you may be familiar with the concept of intent from hearing the phrase “assume positive intent,” which is often a primary tenant of safe spaces. This means, for example, that if someone uses a word you find offensive, rather than assuming the person meant that term to offend, you assume their intent was positive, and they may not know the term is an offensive one.

One of Lizzie’s favorite razors is Hanlon’s razor, which states, “never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity.” Another way to phrase this razor could be “never assign negative intent where there may simply be no intent.” This philosophy has served Lizzie well in her relationships.