The Beginner's Guide to Living Intentionally

The Beginner’s Guide to Living Intentionally

Why is living an intentional life so important?
This beginner’s guide will answer that loaded question!
Living intentionally is important because it creates a mindset to make daily changes in your life. It help you live the life you truly deserve.
I have been thinking about where I am at this stage of my life (at the ripe age of 63) and it has stopped me in my tracks. My reality check came last February when I returned to work after a medical leave for major jaw reconstruction.
I was told my hourly rate was capped. I will no longer receive a pay increase. Needless to say, that took the wind right out of my sails. I got angry.
That anger has now given me motivation to set a new path to live my life the way I intend.
It gave me a kick in the rear to decide NO, I AM worth more than this!
It gave me the motivation to take a new course to decide on what to do with my life. What am I really meant to do with the rest of my life. My true purpose is this crazy world. My parents instilled in me to work hard, be accountable for my actions. They taught me that I am of value.
SO, I have made up my mind, I am worth more than my current pay and NO ONE (Except me) can dictate what MY value is. Let’s make this journey together. We can do this!

Intentional living is making your own choices in life BEFORE others make choices for you.
It creates a mindset to make changes in your life and ultimately live the life you truly deserve.

Be specific in your WHY. Instead of this goal,”I want to make more money to support my family”, use “I want to increase my income by $200/wk in the next six months to help support my family” Be crystal clear using specific intentions with a realistic ending.
Be true to yourself when setting your goals. If you are a night owl, set up your goal for writing in your journal before bedtime. Trying to get up at 5:00am to write in your journal may not be realistic. Each one of us run at a different pace, what works for one person may not work for another.
Take mini moments throughout your day. When mindful of the moments you have each day, you will end up with better results. Try setting a reminder on your phone to help you stop in that moment and notice what you are actually doing. How aware are you of the people around you? What is your focus at that moment?
Living intentional is living mindfully.

How do I get started?
- Define your why and let no one take it from you. We do not have to live up to someone else’s standards. Each of us have value that is all your own. Write down the top three priorities in your life. There is no right or wrong when it comes to intentional living. It is about YOUR why and not someone else’s.
What is your purpose in this crazy beautiful world?
- Each of us have been put here for a purpose. We can take control of who we are and begin to remove the clutter from our lives. Think about those priorities and if they fit into your current lifestyle.
Who has influenced you in your life to be your best?
- Think back to a moment in your life where your Mom/Dad, teacher, or mentor guided you through a difficult time. What did they say or show you by example that helped you make changes in your life?
What will I need to live intentional?
- A solid goal hand written, in your face every day. Take it one step/goal at a time. Do one thing a day that will help you to achieve your WHY.

After I found out I would no longer receive a pay increase, it changed my mindset. I knew I was worth more. I am on a new adventure to help others who may be going through something similar. Is it time to change direction in your life and find your value? We are all here for a reason and it is NOT ok for someone else to decide what that is. Figure out your WHY. Write it down on a piece of paper. Yep, paper and pen. It’s a different feeling then logging in a computer. It makes that goal more real. I dare you to try it! Build from there one step at a time. One day at a time. We can do this!
Have you been through something similar in your career? What did you do?