And, like, yeah, weallwant to live full, productive, and meaningful lives.
(Or, at least, I do).
Well, I did some digging to find out.
pixdeluxe/Getty Images.
Practicing intentionalitysoundseasyand it is, to an extent.
But it requires self-accountability,discipline, and lots of hard work.
If you’re up for the challenge (I believe in you!
), we lay out exactly how you’re able to be more intentional.
Buy a vision board.
Benefits of Being Intentional
Think of intentionality as being in the driver’s seat of your life.
You’re in control of yourself and the destination.
You’re living more authentically and gaining more integrity in yourself and your relationships.
And you feel less regret and doubt over your decisions.
Your time management will also become more streamlined and efficient.
When you act purposely, you put important tasks and duties first, says Beaupre.
you might choose at least one of these basic strategies (down below) to implement today.
Zeller recommends starting your intentionality journey by :
Want more?
Keep reading on for more expert-backed tips on becoming intentional.
Plan Your Day Out
Before beginning your day, take a few minutes to outline your goals.
Planning can help you stay on track and prevent being sidetracked by less important things, says Beaupre.
Make a Vision Board
Creating a vision board can help you visualize your goals.
Put it somewhere you will see daily, like on your bedroom wall or phone lock screen.
Learn to Say No
Having strong boundaries is super important when it comes to being more intentional.
Remember that no is a complete sentence.
No ifs, and, or buts.
Being firm with your boundaries will help you choose how to spend your time and energy more carefully.
Being Intentional in Relationships
Intentionality isn’t limited to the self.
It also applies to our relationships, be either romantic, work, friendly, familial, or otherwise.
To be intentional in relationships means to examine them and determine if it’s serving you and your needs.
And if this relationshipisaligned with your goals, how are you contributing to it?
How are you showing up for your friend, partner, or co-worker?
The deep questions are tough, eh?
But that’s what being intentional is all about!
Making purposeful choices to deepen andstrengthen the relationship’sbond and communication.
Unsure where to start?
Beaupre has some suggestions.
She suggests folks prioritize spendingquality timewith the people they care about.
Just have a go at show up for them.
It shows that they are important to you, which can help strengthen your relationship, says Beaupre.
Keep Communication Regular
Keepingcommunicationflowing is vital for maintaining any relationship.
This can help avoid misunderstandings and make them feel included in your life.
Keep Learning About Each Other
The number one piece of advice for anyone!
Dont take your relationships for granted.
Always make a point to delve deeper into them.
People always change and grow, so keep trying to learn new things about them and stay close.
Adding more intentionality into your life is a great way to work toward a life goal.
This helps give you a target to aim at and makes checking progress easier, says Beaupre.
Knowing exactly what you want to achieve can help you stay motivated and intentional.
Measurable
Have a method of progress.
It’ll keep you on track, plus motivate you to stay focused.
Beaupre suggests using time, numbers, or other clear markers as progress points.
Begin with small, reachable goals and slowly make them harder as you get better.
Relevant
Your goals should match your values andlife purpose.
Time-Bound
A goal without a deadline is just a wish, says Beaupre.
Of course, SMART isn’t the only approach for becoming intentional with your goals.
No more back-seat drivingyou’re in charge now.
(2021).Does time management work?
A meta-analysis.PLOS ONE,16(1), e0245066.
