There is a big difference between wishful thinking and intention setting. One of the biggest differences is the time frame wishful thinking is all about the future while intention setting is about the present moment.

Another key difference between intention setting and wishful thinking is with wishful thinking you are not really using your mind the focus on what you want instead you are just playing with it, you allow it to come in and out. When it comes to intention set your focus on this thought and allow the divine to help co-create it.

A last note I would like to add is this when it does come to intention setting be sure that you are setting it not for a particular outcome but instead try setting it for a emotional state. For example instead of I intended to get this promotion what about I intend to feel recognized for my work. Read both of thous and see which one intuitively feels better when you say it out loud .