8 STEPS TO INTENTIONAL LIVING AND HURDLES TO OVERCOME

The definition of ‘intentional’ is “done on purpose; deliberate” so when we look at ‘intentional living’, in basic terms it means living life on purpose. Simple right? In the modern world, not so much. Most of us live in a society where being busy becomes normal which can result in coasting through life.

Living intentionally means living life on your terms! This requires being mindful when making decisions and taking action. Asking yourself questions like, does this take me in the direction I want my life to go?

Life doesn't have to feel hard. Curve balls will inevitably come your way but your day to day life should feel natural and enjoyable. If life doesn’t feel that way, maybe it’s time to make a change.

Change doesn’t always come easy and there are a few things that might pop up along the way.

HURDLES TO OVERCOME

Being comfortable

Safety and security are basic human needs so naturally you will feel an aversion to anything that unsettles that. Staying in familiarity and comfort is what feels safe but if you truly want to start living intentionally, you’re going to have to get used to feeling a bit uncomfortable.

Society ‘norm’s’

In first world countries especially, we live in societies that are built around structure that keep people ‘safe’. From a young age, children are taught about how things ‘should’ be done, what career paths they ‘should’ follow etc. Most of us weren’t encouraged to follow paths that really resonate with us, instead ones that will help us fit in. Maybe you want to make a life change that is a bit unconventional and that’s OK!

Comparison (is the thief of joy)!

Following the crowd may leave you feeling disappointed and unfulfilled, as what was one person’s dream actually might not resonate that strongly with you. Inner conflict can happen if your intuition is telling you to go after different things. Making decisions based on your core values is the best way to overcome this as you will always feel in alignment.

Fear of the unknown

If you take away anything from this post, feel the fear and do it anyway. This is hands down the best way to overcome it! Write down all the things you’ve ever done even though you were scared. Maybe you joined a fitness class, did public speaking, a skydive or went on a blind date. Recognise and congratulate yourself on the bravery and determination you embodied to overcome the fear.

So what do you do when you realise something doesn’t feel right? How do you create the life you dream about?

8 STEPS TO INTENTIONAL LIVING

1. Recognising something needs to change

Consciously recognising that something needs to change is a massive step. Take time to slow down and reflect on what areas of your life don’t feel good right now. Write down whatever comes up for you.

2. What are your core values?

Don’t skip this step! Your values are your inner compass, your blueprint so to speak. Maybe you already clearly know your values which is great, write them down and keep them somewhere you see them daily. If you’re not sure, check out my free 'what are my core values?' worksheet below!

Your values will give you a deeper understanding of why you want to make certain changes. Focus your energy on what you do want to create instead of sitting with what isn’t working. Step into your power by taking control of your future and resist the urge to dwell in being a victim to your current circumstances. When you get clear on how you want to feel, you can work out an action plan to get there!

3. What does your dream life look like?

Once you’re clear on the why and how you want to feel, visualise what life will look like when you achieve this goal.

Example: Maybe you want a career change into a more creative role, in a company that offers flexitime so you can work your favourite yoga class and lunch dates with friends around working hours.

Get as detailed as you can and write down exactly what it looks like. Let yourself have fun with the visualisation process. If it makes you smile and get butterflies, you’re on the right track!

4. Action plan

Is it a big decision that will transform your life? To avoid overwhelm, break down your goal into bite size chunks. Plan out the step by step goals you need to achieve to make this happen.

Start following intentional decisions with intentional action. This is an important step in taking ownership of your life. Start today and choose one small action that you can take to move you toward your dream. Take another step every day.

5. Set a date

Be specific in terms of when you want to achieve your desired outcome by. Getting clear on this will give you something to work towards. Be realistic with your timescale so you are setting yourself up for success!

6. Don’t give into resistance

Basic human instinct wants to keep you where it feels comfortable and safe but if you give into the resistance you feel, you are settling! Your mind might tell you all the reasons you can’t do something (the ego does this to ‘protect’ us and keep us in familiarity) but it’s important you don’t give into it. Whenever doubt creeps in, revert back to your desired outcome, feel the good feels and read back over the notes you made on your dream life.

7. Set boundaries

Life can get in the way of living intentionally. Boundaries may need to be set and sacrifices made. Remember, it’s ok to say no! Share your goal with a loved one so they are understanding of the changes you’re making. Sharing your goal will also give you some accountability.

8. Enjoy the journey!

Learning to live in the moment and enjoying what we have today is one of the most powerful ways to live intentionally. Instead of thinking “I’ll be happy when”, enjoy the journey of getting there.

Living intentionally takes practice but you’ll notice that as you start to make more intentional decisions and take inspired action daily, it will spill over into different areas of your life. You have the choice to do and live the life you desire!

A FINAL NOTE

Remember, you have the map and you are in the drivers seat. You might be taking a different route but you have everything you need to get you where you want to go. Revert back to your desired outcome as motivation, buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Much love,

Sandra x