Think about what intentional living means to you. Close your eyes. Think of the woman you want to become five years from now, ten years from now. How about when you’re 80 years old?
don’t lose sight of how our actions will shape our futures
My first semester of college was a whirlwind of new experiences, many of which were do-it-for-the-plot moments. I didn’t consider how some of my actions and behaviors would impact not only myself, but also the people I love. I learned a lot in the span of four short months as I began to figure out what fed my soul and what left me feeling hollow. That is why I want to remind all of us this semester, and for the years to come, to live intentionally.
This begins by returning to our roots.
Everyone has someone or something they turn to when they need to feel grounded, something that reminds them of what they value and what they’re working toward. Perhaps it’s a box of handwritten cards from your loved ones that you pull out and re-read with a soft smile as tears well up in your eyes. Maybe it’s a favorite book from your childhood whose pages echo the dreams of the little girl who still resides in your heart. It could be the person who feels like home, the one who makes your stomach ache from uncontrollable laughter and knows your heart, mind, and soul like the back of their hand. Or perhaps it’s your faith that fills your spirit, allowing you to lay down your burdens and, in return, find clarity and peace.
Knowing what and who fills your cup is foundational in your pursuit of a meaningful life.
Articulating and Envisioning What is Meaningful
The next step in living intentionally is creating a goal to work toward.
At first, I asked you to close your eyes and envision the woman you hope to become in five years. What does she value? What is she working toward? What are her ambitions? What has she already accomplished? How does she feel, optimistic, confident? How does she make others feel around her? Is she uplifting, generous, and kind?
This goal does not have to be lofty. It should serve as a building block among many others, each one holding a place in shaping the woman you envision.
Small, Intentional Steps
Once you have identified a key characteristic of your future self that you want to work toward, it is time to think of the small, purposeful actions you will take to accomplish that goal.
For instance, let’s say my goal is to become a more positive individual–someone who radiates exuberance.
From there, I would outline three intentional steps that would move me closer to that version of myself.
My first course of action would be to join clubs and student organizations that I am passionate about. Speaking from my own experience, I would choose two: one club that lets me pursue my hobbies, and one that helps me gain experience related to my future career goals.
Second, I would make it a priority to compliment one person a day. If they reciprocate, I’d have a conversation with them and hopefully get to know them! I enjoy talking with and meeting new people, especially as a college freshman, and in doing so, I can spread love and positivity within my community.
My third step would be to journal one thing that I was grateful for that day. Positive psychologists suggest that doing this exercise boosts overall well-being and reduces stress. By identifying moments in my daily life that I appreciate, I make a conscious effort to notice the good. Through that, I will begin to embody and intentionally foster the positivity that is derived from this practice.
After practicing these steps for a while, recognizing that every goal is different and that the timeline for growth is entirely personal, I will be able to measure my progress through honest reflection.
Reflecting is crucial to living intentionally
Understanding how your actions are helping, or perhaps hindering, the pursuit of your goals is vital. This reflection is ongoing; it is how you evaluate whether you’re still aligned with the woman you want to become.
That woman can and will change as you grow. Reflection will help you recognize those changes and become aware of the new dreams you desire for yourself.
My dreams have certainly changed over the past year, especially in how I envision my future career and my hopes for a family. By spending time reflecting on who I am right now and who I hope to become, I noticed these changes in my heart. Perhaps, these desires were there all along; I just unveiled them.
I encourage you to unveil your desires and hopes for your future, and to be honest with yourself. Once you know the heart of the woman you aspire to be, it is only a matter of taking action that stands between you and her.
So, what are you doing right now to become the 80-year-old woman?
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