When you set out to change your behavior, it seems natural to choose quantifiable measures of success: losing 25 pounds, running an 8-minute mile, meditating for 20 minutes every day. Daniel J. Siegel, M.D., Executive Director of the Mindsight Institute, explains how such concrete goals set you up for feelings of failure. More important than hitting any benchmark is the intention behind your goal: feeling lighter and healthier, improving your running time, or alleviating stress with meditation whenever you can. Here, Dr. Siegel explains how focusing on your intention is a more valuable motivator than narrowly defined expectations when you are making changes to your lifestyle.

DEFINE YOUR WELLNESS MISSION VIDEOS

CHAPTER 1 Neuroplasticity: Change is possible! When you learn a new health habit, your brain's neurons will connect in a different way to trigger a new response. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 2 Motivation Our experts weigh in on the importance of clear motivation. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 6 Small changes = Big Change Experts explain how small, incremental changes in your lifestyle add up to beneficial changes in your life. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 12 (currently viewing) Goals: Expectation vs. Intention... Your intention to improve your life overall is most important towards reaching your goals. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 14 Mindful Awareness & Telomerase Telomeres enable your cells to keep dividing and living. Those who practice mindful awareness have healthier telomeres. VIEW VIDEO