Is there a difference in the energetics: in thinking or saying out loud, “I want,” as compared to “I choose?” I believe there is; let’s begin by simply comparing the definitions:
WANT
• to have a strong feeling to have (something); wish (to possess or do something); desire greatly.
• to wish for a particular thing or plan of action; “want” is not used in polite requests.
CHOOSE
• to select from a number of possible alternatives; decide on and pick out.
• to prefer or decide (to do something).
This past weekend, Lucy and I led our first event in our HONESTY WELL series, Holiday Integrity. It’s a series that will continue through 2025, where we will explore deeper concepts of being human and navigating our complex lives.
I mention this because we engaged in various “choosing” activities from guided and creative canvas meditations, qigong, yin yoga, and deep conversations. We wrapped it up with a small art project entitled, “Creating Your Season.” I adore the word “creating”; it falls into the category of selecting and not just wanting. Let me explain.
The energetics of when we focus on “I want” come with the idea that we are limited, separated from what we desire, and basically hoping for something to change. We may also feel very alone in our wanting. “I choose” is claiming our right and intention to move into whatever we wish to experience (create), understanding everything is fully available to us.
Take a moment with a few deep breaths and say out loud something you have been wanting in your life, “I want (fill in the blank).” Now come back to center, and again take a few deep breaths, and say, “I choose (same fill-in-the-blank).”
Can you feel the difference? One has a little more of a feeling of powerlessness; the other is a full expression of your authentic power and your complete ability to co-create.
What do you choose today?
What do you choose in this moment?
What do you choose to create?
Choosing is co-creating with the universe; how beautiful is that? It allows for something better than “wanting.” Here’s an invitation to do with me throughout this holiday season and beyond: instead of the habit of saying, “I want,” let’s say, “I choose…” and add on “…this or something better.” Because the universe always has our back, we simply have to ask and then have no attachments to how or when that chosen desire comes into fruition.
Have fun experimenting with this, and please comment below and let me know your thoughts.
And lastly, our next event in The HONESTY WELL series; January 18 from 1:30-4:00pm. Mark your calendars, details TBA!
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The idea for this insight came from the astrologer Pam Younghans, who posted an excerpt channeling from Archangel Gabriel through Shelley Young (Trinity Esoterics).
Hi Toni, I’m with you 100% with the concept that our words contain power. I believe that they also have distinct energy patterns that open us to possibilities or dampen our own energy field in a way that holds us back.
The word “want” also means that something is wanting, which means something is lacking. It comes from a place of inadequate, deficient or flawed. So when I want something, it implies I am “less than” is some way.
However, when I choose something, I am present and have agency over my thoughts about what direction or action I’m about to take. As you and the other’s who have commented. There’s personal power in making a choice. (please scroll down to read more.)
I’m grateful every day that I have the choice to drive my car, have a bank account, own my own business, shop for food, have a hot shower in the morning, etc. There are places in the world where these choices aren’t available especially for women. My prayers for those who live in cultures where many choices are not an option. My love to you as you continue choose learning and healing as your path. Carol
Carol, thank you for sharing your comments with all of us. Having personal power in choosing gives us agency and what direction or action to take. I love all of this!
So insightful Toni. I choose has so much power in a positive way. I’ll keep this thinking in mind.
With gratitude-Rebecca
Thanks for your comment Rebecca, yes “choosing” does have a lot of power. Everything we say has power doesn’t it? I’m working on becoming more aware of my language to myself and others.
Hi and thanks for this.
My meditation practice has a concluding piece that ties a bow on the experience, twice a day, when I go toward my gratitude and lean into manifesting.
This delightful difference between I want and I choose is really just the ticket, isn’t it? I feel it already and the idea just rings truth like a bell.
Thank you once more.
Deep bow once more.
Patty Pam
You are very welcome. Yes, I feel the difference very strongly in my body, a truth bell indeed. A deep bow to you, Patty Pam.