Intentional Living for the Year Ahead

As we stand on the threshold of another year, it’s a poignant moment to contemplate the intentions we set for ourselves. Life, after all, is full of endings and beginnings, each offering a chance to pause, reflect, and consider our course for the future.

There’s a nuance, isn’t there, between living intentionally and being solely goal-oriented?

Goals, while commendable, often propel us down a single path, fixated on achievements like career advancements, financial milestones, or personal records. It’s not the goals themselves that pose a danger, but rather the undue emphasis we place on them and the subsequent disappointment if they remain unfulfilled.

Intentions, on the other hand, act as guiding principles, providing forward momentum while allowing the flexibility to embrace the unplanned and unexpected. It’s about living with purpose in each moment and defining how we want to navigate the world around us.

In my own journey, I’ve stumbled upon instances where goals went unmet, and initially, I felt like a failure. Yet, in hindsight, as other facets of my life fell into place, I discovered the hidden benefits of these apparent failures—realizing that there was a different, unforeseen path intended for me.

The key lies in enjoying the journey, savoring each step, rather than fixating solely on the destination. This, to me, epitomizes the harmony of goal-setting and intentional living.

So, while we aspire to achieve external goals—embarking on adventures, bolstering finances, enhancing relationships—let’s also commit to being present in every moment. Let’s show up intentionally, focusing on the person we are from the starting line to the finish.

And if we deviate from our intended course, missing the mark we aimed for, let’s ensure that we showed up authentically, allowing ourselves to celebrate the journey. Ultimately, true self-worth doesn’t emanate from external accomplishments but is cultivated within.

It’s about being proud of the person we are throughout the journey and at the journey’s end.

Set intentions for who you want to be and how you want to show up, even as you pursue and conquer your goals.

And if, by chance, some goals elude you, remember, you are never a failure if you can look in the mirror and take pride in the person you were along the way.

Always,

Your Trusted Friend ❤