Being a student means having a desire to learn. (= If you are a student, it means that you have…)
I’ve been meaning to call you but have forgotten. (= It has been my intention to call you…)
I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. (I didn’t want to…)

I can’t help thinking that you are hiding something. (= I have to think that you…) (only in the negative)
Giving up smoking may help (to) reduce anxiety in the long run.
Could you help me (to) undo my shoelaces? My fingers are frozen.

TO + infinitive or gerund: LIKE, HATE, PREFER, CAN'T BEAR
Verbs followed by TO + infinitive or the gerund with a change of meaning TO + infinitive or gerund: NEED, REQUIRE, WANT