Intentions Matter

Leaders work hard at being intentional and not reactive. They decide what reaction they will give and what reaction they want to get in almost every interaction. It can sound manipulative when you think about it in those terms. However, behind being intentional is something much deeper: Intentions. Why you do something matters as much as how you do it.
Mahatma Gandhi said, "Before the throne of the Almighty, man will be judged not by his acts but by his intentions. For God alone reads our hearts". It may be true that only God can read our hearts, but often our actions give away our intentions when our words try to hide them or vice versa.
It is important to be honest with yourself about why you are doing something. Sometimes we can fool ourselves into believing we are doing something with good intentions when we know we have other underlying motives. Whatever your motives, own them. If you are not sure if your motives are good or bad, remove the emotion from the situation and ask if you would give someone you care about advice to follow the path you are following. If not, you should probably reconsider your path.
Leaders should be honest and transparent about their motives whenever possible. However, it is wise to consider the timing and benefit of sharing information with your team. Know your team's personalities and ability to handle different information. If you cannot share your intentions up front be sure to consider how they might be perceived.
Our intentions can have a mirror effect where our intentions are reflected in the results of our actions. We reap what we sow. It can also create a fun house mirror effect in the way we see others. We can have distorted views of others because we judge them by our intentions instead of seeing them for their intentions. In other words we think the worst of people because we know our intentions in similar past situations were not the best.
"All that we are is the result of what we have thought. The mind is everything. What we think we become"~ Buddha
Another point to consider: We quickly find ourselves surrounded by others with the same intentions. Scott brought up a quote in this lesson "Your vibe attracts your tribe". Look at your friends and those closest to you and consider how they reflect you. You may find a different reflection of your intentions in the people you surround yourself with everyday.
Challenge yourself to be intentional and know your intentions and you will find yourself becoming a better leader.

Scriptures:

Ephesians 1:9                        Hebrews 4:12                        Genesis 6:5