“Intentional living is any lifestyle based on an individual or group’s conscious attempts to live according to their values and beliefs. These can include lifestyles based on religious, political or ethical values, as well as for self-improvement”.
“Taylor, what are your values? Seriously. What are the top 10 values that are the most important things in cultivating the type of life you want?” My therapist, Michael asked me this on our second meeting together, and I have not seen intentional living the same since that conversation.
When was the last time you sat down and thought about the ten values in your life that are most important to you? Or even 5? Is it success, money, fame, family, charity, love?
That night, I wrote my top ten down in my journal and added accountability promises to myself. I use these as a tool in my mind when I am choosing new paths in my life or letting go of old ones. When I am aware of my values, I am able to intentionally attract those people, places, and things into my life.
My “Top Ten”:
Anthropology – I am going to intentionally study cultures, foods, religion, habits, and lifestyle differences from people all over the world. I am going to let this knowledge make me a more open, empathetic, and grounded person in my own life.
Hard Work – I am going to be intentional about working hard in my career to creating a business I am proud of owning. I am going to be intentional about working hard to have a healthy relationship with others and myself. I am going to be intentional about working hard in all goals I set for myself.
Loyalty – I am going to be intentional about giving my loyalty to people and things that are serving as a positive addition to my life.
Respect – I am going to be intentional about respecting my own needs so that I can respect others. I am going to respect other’s time and effort. I am going to respect people’s right to choose.
Humor – I am going to be intentional about creating a life that is full of humor even when I am in a difficult season. I know for sure laughter is the best medicine.
Commitment – I am going to be intentional about my commitment to my career, relationships, and myself. When I agree to be a part of something or someone’s life I am going to fully commit.
Generosity – I am going to be intentional about giving to others more than I receive.
Individuality – I am going to be intentional about being the most authentic version of myself. I am going to be unapologetically me.
Spirituality – I am going to be intentional about being staying connected to my Higher Power. I am going to make my relationship with God a priority.
Resilience – I am going to be intentional about “getting back up” when life feels like there is not light at the end of the tunnel. I am resilient and capable.
