The law of cause and effect reminds us that very little, and perhaps nothing, is random. Every thought, every choice, and every action creates an effect. Over time, choices become habits, habits form character, and character largely defines our future. This is why conscious intention matters. Unconscious actions and choices create unintended effects, usually not in our best interests. Conscious choices anticipate effects to the degree possible. Conscious intentionchooses positive effects.
We are not passive observers of life as so many incorrectly believe. We shape the life and world in which we and others live. Every thought, decision, and action creates an effect. Some effects are apparent and immediate. Most unfold invisibly over months, years, or lifetimes, emerging when least expected. The most distant effects lead us to incorrectly believe our past cause had no effect. Eventually, what we set in motion returns in relationships rich or sour, opportunities seized or missed, trust earned or wasted, challenges defeating or empowering, and, ultimately, in the person we become. Understanding this timeless truth bestows enormous responsibility and power.
We no longer see ourselves as victims. We own our life’s outcome regardless of the cards we are dealt. We understand that a better future does not result from waiting for better circumstances, demanding others to change when we do not, or expecting others to assume responsibility that is rightfully ours. We must be conscious and assume responsibility for the effects we can see and those beyond the hill ahead. With practice, conscious intention becomes a very, very useful habit. It isn’t difficult. We stop asking “Why is this happening to me?” We ask instead, “What am I setting in motion right now?” “What effect might this choice create?” and “Will it advance me toward my potential or leave me wandering?”
Shifting from unconscious reaction to consciously intentional effects is a measure of personal growth. We cannot control the challenges life presents, but we can consciously decide what comes next. Imagine if we all made 20% or even 10% more decisions with conscious intention for positive effects. Every day we march toward our potential, maximizing human qualities, or we walk away to dwell in our animal past. Our potential is more human and wiser. Wisdom eludes us until we accept that our life is a cause of many effects, and we own them all, even those seemingly random.
