Intent is Momentous

This phrase asserts that the underlying intention behind an action is far more important and has a greater, lasting impact than the words or actions themselves. I first encountered this concept when Matthew McConaughey discussed it during an episode of the Diary of a CEO podcast. At first glance, this idea appears to strike a sharp contrast with the conventional wisdom that "actions speak louder than words."

 

The Superiority of Intent

While action is necessary, it is the intent that dictates the ultimate value and direction of the action.

• Action Without Purpose: An action performed without genuine, focused intent is often shallow, temporary, or misdirected. For example, a person may give money (an action) but if the intent is solely for public recognition, the act is primarily self-serving.
• Intent as the Foundation: Consider a promise of marriage. You cannot have a successful marriage (the lasting actions) without the profound intent to commit. The intent to marry is the foundational promise that precedes, validates, and sustains the wedding ceremony itself. The action only confirms the deeper, more significant commitment.

 

The Sustaining Force

Intent is the internal engine that provides persistence and meaning, especially when external results are delayed or absent.

When you formalize your aspirations by writing down goals or resolutions, you are literally giving life to your intent. This inner resolve is what keeps you driving forward even when the action becomes difficult or seems impossible. The intent to succeed acts as the primary source of motivation, providing the resilience required to follow through and achieve or overachieve your goals.

For actors like Matthew McConaughey, a consistent body of critically acclaimed work (such as True Detective or Interstellar) is not merely a collection of successful actions; it is a manifestation of an unwavering intent to deliver remarkable art. It is this clear, high-level purpose that guides career choices and sustains the difficult work, leading to monumental recognition like an Oscar win.

 

Intent in Partnership: Zenlipa

At Zenlipa, our intent is to partner with event organizers and fundraisers to introduce a fresh, powerful experience into philanthropy — the art of giving. Our goal is not just to perform transactions, but to offer meaningful value to all donors and event goers.

Achieving this requires strong, lasting intent to push through the complexities of our current economic environment. We require the same foundational intent from our partners: a genuine intent to improve the donor experience and ultimately meet your desired goal. The success of the partnership will be measured not just by the actions we take together, but by the significance of the shared intent that drives us.

For more information, visit https://zenlipa.co.ke.