Answer this question to the best of your ability:
Is it possible to set an intention for my meditation practice, rather than a specific goal?
Yes, setting an intention for your meditation practice is quite common and can be highly beneficial. An intention generally focuses on the broader outcome you wish to achieve from your practice, such as cultivating compassion or practicing non-judgment. This differs from having a specific goal in mind, which might focus more on a particular result, like mastering a certain meditation technique. To set an intention for your meditation practice, follow these steps:

1. Reflect on what you want to gain from your practice. It could be emotional well-being, mental clarity, or even self-awareness.
2. Choose a concise and meaningful statement that represents this desired outcome. Your intention should be something that guides your meditation and helps you maintain focus.
3. Repeat your intention silently or out loud at the beginning of your meditation session to establish its presence in your mind.
4. As you meditate, keep coming back to your intention whenever your mind starts to wander. This will help you stay focused on your practice and allow the intended outcome to guide your experience.
5. After your meditation session, take a moment to reflect on how your intention affected your practice. This can help you gauge the effectiveness of your intention and make any necessary adjustments for future sessions.