Setting Intent that Unlocks Your Inner Magic

Setting intent is the beating heart of magic—it’s the spark that ignites the flame and sets your desires in motion. Without intent, you’re just going through the motions, like a GPS without a destination. But when you set your intent with clarity and purpose, you align your energy with the universe in a way that’s almost impossible to ignore.

Intent isn’t just a wish; it’s a declaration. It’s planting your flag in the soil of possibility and claiming your space in the world. So, let’s talk about how to set your intent in a way that’s not just effective but downright transformative.

Start with the “Why”

Intent begins with asking yourself, why? Why do you want what you want? Why is this goal important to you? Too often, we skip this step and jump straight into the “how” of making things happen. But understanding your “why” gives your intent depth and roots.

As I wrote in Coventry Magic, magic demands change. It’s not a shortcut; it’s a call to action. When you set your intent, you’re saying to the universe, “I’m ready to change.” So, dig deep. Is your desire rooted in fear, or is it coming from a place of growth? Are you trying to fill a void, or are you ready to create something new?

Be honest with yourself—magic thrives on authenticity. Your “why” isn’t always pretty, and that’s okay. The beauty of intent is that it works with who you are, not who you think you should be.

Get Specific

Vague intentions are like vague instructions—they lead to confusion. If your intent is murky, the energy you’re sending out will be just as unclear. Instead of saying, “I want more money,” try, “I want to increase my monthly income by $1,000 so I can pay off debt and save for a vacation.” See the difference?

When you’re specific, you’re creating a clear path for your energy to follow. You’re also holding yourself accountable. Magic isn’t just about what happens outside of you; it’s also about the shifts that happen within.

Write It Down

There’s something powerful about putting pen to paper. Writing your intent makes it tangible. It takes a thought—a fleeting moment—and turns it into something real.

In The Big Book of Candle Magic, I emphasize the importance of a magical journal. Use it to write down your intent, your feelings, and even your doubts. This is your space to explore what you want and why you want it. Think of it as a roadmap for your magic.

Pro tip: When writing your intent, use the present tense. Instead of saying, “I will find love,” write, “I am surrounded by love and deep connection.” This helps you embody the energy of your desire as if it’s already happening.

Visualize the Outcome

Intent is the seed, but visualization is the water and sunlight. Close your eyes and imagine your desire as if it’s already a reality. What does it look like? How does it feel? Who are you in this new reality?

Visualization isn’t just a mental exercise—it’s an energetic one. When you visualize, you’re aligning your energy with your goal. As I often say, magic is as much about shifting your inner world as it is about affecting the outer one.

Anchor It in Ritual

Ritual is where intent becomes action. Whether it’s lighting a candle, saying an affirmation, or performing a spell, ritual gives your intent a physical anchor.

In Coventry Magic, I break down how to choose the right ritual for your intention. A green candle for prosperity, a pink one for love, or a black candle for release—each choice adds a layer of meaning to your magic. Dressing your candle with oils and herbs that align with your goal takes it even further.

Ritual doesn’t have to be elaborate to be effective. It just needs to be meaningful. Even a simple act, like lighting a candle and speaking your desire aloud, can be profoundly powerful.

Let It Go

Here’s the paradox of intent: you have to care deeply about your desire but also be willing to let it go. Once you’ve set your intention, trust the process. Obsessing over the outcome can create resistance.

Think of it like planting a seed. You don’t keep digging it up to see if it’s growing—you trust that with time and care, it will sprout. Magic works the same way. Set your intent, do the work, and then release your grip on how and when it will happen.

Check in with Yourself

Intent isn’t a one-and-done deal. It’s a living, breathing thing that evolves as you do. Regularly check in with yourself: Is this still what I want? Does this intent still feel aligned with who I am?

Your magical journal is a great tool for this. Use it to track your progress, reflect on your journey, and celebrate your wins. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a step closer to your goal.

Final Thoughts from Aunt Jacki

Setting intent is about more than manifesting your desires. It’s about getting to know yourself—your fears, your dreams, and your deepest truths. It’s about stepping into your power and declaring to the universe, “This is who I am, and this is what I’m here to create.”

Magic begins with you. So take your time, ask the hard questions, and don’t be afraid to get messy. The beauty of intent is that it doesn’t demand perfection. It just asks for honesty, clarity, and a willingness to grow.

Light your candle, set your intent, and let the magic unfold. Because, as I always say, Aunt Jacki’s got a candle for that.

Ready to set your intent? Explore Coventry Creations’ line of hand-poured candles, crafted with intention and love to help you manifest your dreams.