Preparation for Psychedelic Exploration – Setting an Intention

What Is Setting an Intention — and Why Is It Worth Doing It with Someone?

Setting an intention is a practice that helps you understand why you want to have a psychedelic experience.

Research shows that having a clear intention can significantly improve the quality of the experience, helping you focus on what truly matters. Intentions act like a compass, guiding you through the complexities of consciousness.

If you’re feeling lost or unsure, it can often be easier to set intentions with someone else — someone who can help you uncover the deeper, less obvious desires hidden beneath the surface.

Here are a few tips to help you define your intention:.

1. 1. Start with a simple question: Why do I want this experience?
   This is the most important question. The goal is to understand your motivations and what you hope to achieve. Studies show that people with clear intentions tend to have more meaningful and satisfying experiences. You can ask yourself:

   • What do I want from this journey?

   • What do I want to learn?

   • What do I want to release or invite into my life?

   2. Be honest with yourself.
   Honesty is essential. Psychedelics can reveal many aspects of your psyche, so it’s important to approach the experience with authenticity and self-awareness. Research indicates that self-honesty increases the likelihood of a positive and transformative outcome.

   3. Take time to reflect on your intention.
   Reflection is key. Don’t rush. Clarifying your intention can take days or even weeks. The more time you spend in reflection, the more conscious and profound your experience will be. According to research, careful preparation increases the positive effects of a psychedelic journey.

   4. Write it down.
   Writing helps create clarity. Keeping a journal allows you to express your thoughts and emotions freely. Write your intention in a simple form — for example: “I want to improve the quality of my relationships.” Studies show that written intentions carry more influence and are more likely to shape the experience.

   5. Limit the number of intentions for one journey.
   Focusing on one or two intentions at a time is most effective. Too many goals can create confusion. Research suggests that simplicity and clarity are key to a successful psychedelic experience.

   6. Don’t hold on too tightly.
   Intentions are important, but flexibility is equally so. If your journey takes an unexpected turn, allow it to unfold naturally. Studies show that openness to new experiences enhances positive outcomes.

   I hope these tips help you prepare for your psychedelic explorations and make the most of them. Remember — good preparation is the foundation for deep, meaningful, and valuable experiences.

   Safe travels!

   Dr. Anna Grochowska, MD, MA