The Relationship Between Will and Desire

Will and desire are two fundamental human drives that often intersect in our pursuit of achieving our goals. Understanding the relationship between these two concepts can significantly enhance our ability to reach our aspirations. This article explores how desire and will differ, their roles in our lives, and why will is often the more powerful force in driving us to achieve our goals.

Desire and Will: A Closer Look

Desire is instinctual. It is the feeling that arises when we see something interesting or desirable around us. For instance, if you happen to see a Lamborghini on the street, and it sparks a desire within you to have such a vehicle, this is fundamentally a desire. However, when you feel an overwhelming need for that car, a desire so intense that you say, "I must have it," this is will. Will is the commitment and determination to pursue that desire regardless of the obstacles or challenges.

Desire: The Beginning of the Journey

At its core, desire is the catalyst for action. When we are motivated by desire, it propels us towards defining our goals, setting aspirations, and moving towards what we want. Desire is powerful; it compels us to step out of our comfort zones and take the necessary steps to achieve our goals. It is the ignition that starts the engine of progress.

Will: The Steady Presence

Despite the power of desire, it can be short-lived and unstable. When we successfully achieve a goal, we often return to our previous state, which can lead to a feeling of dissatisfaction or even frustration. Will, on the other hand, is a consistent and persistent force. It is the determination to keep moving forward, even when the initial spark of desire has dimmed. Will helps us maintain focus and keep working towards our goals, even when faced with adversity.

Difference Between Desire and Intent

Desire and intent are often confused because both are directed towards future achievements. However, there are significant differences between them. Desire often stems from a lack or a perceived need. It is about changing a present situation to a more desirable one. This drive can be a motivator, but it can also cause critical thinking and negative emotions such as frustration and fear of failure.

Intent, on the other hand, is more about direction. It is about the intention to work towards a goal, without being overly preoccupied with the exact end result. Intent is more about the process of achieving the goal and less about the outcome. Intent allows us to enjoy the journey without being bogged down by the fear of what might go wrong if we fail to achieve our goals.

Desire vs. Intent in Practice

Let's illustrate this difference with an example. Suppose your desire is to become a billionaire. The desire entails a lot of what you would do once you have achieved that goal, such as buying a Lamborghini, going on cruises, and enjoying the luxuries that come with it. This desire can cause you to constantly think about what you will lose or be punished by if you don't achieve this goal.

On the other hand, your intent might simply be the realization that you want to do whatever it takes to become a billionaire. Once you have set this intention, you can focus on the journey, learning and growing without being overly preoccupied with the outcome. You can celebrate small victories along the way and enjoy the process of achieving your goal.

While desire can be a powerful initial motivator, it is often easier and more effective in the long run to cultivate a sense of intent. Intent allows us to sustain our efforts and maintain our positivity, even in the face of obstacles. It keeps us focused on the process and the learning, rather than the end result.

Conclusion

The relationship between will and desire is integral to our personal and professional growth. Desire is the initial spark that ignites our actions, while will is the persistent force that keeps us moving forward. Understanding the nuances between desire and intent can help us harness these powerful forces to achieve our goals more effectively and enjoy the process.