In previous chats we have looked at self-awareness, self-love, self-confidence, and health and well-being. It all leads to this final point that ties everything together beautifully: intentional living.
I think this is the key to moving forward from this point in our lives. So many of us have been on autopilot for years, just going through the motions to take care of everyone else, but intentional living is the antidote to all of that. It's about consciously designing the next chapter of our lives, not just letting it happen.
For so long, our identity has been tied to being a mum, a wife, or our job title. But when those roles change, we can feel a bit lost and intentional living is the roadmap to finding ourselves again. It encourages us to pause and reflect on our deepest values—what truly matters to us—and then to make choices that are in alignment with who we are now. It's about breaking free from old habits and expectations and choosing a path that feels more authentic and joyful.
I think a huge part of intentional living is learning to say 'no'. We're often so busy with the demands of others, we can become overcommitted and burnt out. When we're intentional, it's easier to say no to things that don't serve us, which protects our time and energy. It's about creating a life of choice, not just reacting to keep others happy.
This "second half" of life can be the most fulfilling, but it requires us to be proactive. Intentional living is the practice of actively seeking out opportunities for growth and purpose, rather than waiting for them to appear. It's what gives us the courage to dust off those old hobbies, go back to school, or start that new business we've been dreaming of. It's about building a legacy that feels personally meaningful to us, beyond our past roles.
Living on autopilot can lead to so much stress and anxiety. But by being intentional, we can simplify our lives and create more space for rest and rejuvenation. It also helps us be more present and mindful in each moment, savouring the small joys in our lives.
I really think intentional living is about moving from "what happened?" to "what's next?" It's a courageous choice to stop letting circumstances dictate our lives and to start designing a life of meaning and joy.
What do you think you'd like to do more intentionally in your life?