Coherent aim
Definiteness of Purpose (Signal Coherence)
Hill treated purpose as a signal property. Vague desire is a weak broadcast. A definite aim is coherent: attention organizes around it, habits form, and the mind becomes more receptive to relevant opportunities and insight.
Core idea
Purpose is not morality in Hill’s system—it’s mechanics. The clearer the aim, the less cognitive noise, and the easier it is to sustain directed emotion without burnout.
The “signal” translation
- Vague desire → weak signal → scattered attention.
- Definite aim → coherent signal → focused perception.
- Emotional commitment → amplification → persistence under stress.
A practical way to become “definite”
- Write one aim in one sentence.
- Define the next 7 days of behavior that supports it.
- Pick one constraint you will not violate.
- Repeat the aim daily (preferably with rhythm).