Intentional Living: Simple Steps To Bring Focus And Meaning To Your Day
Hello there! Nice to meet you—and if you’re reading this, you’re probably already craving a little more focus or meaning in your daily life. (I get it. Who isn’t?) We move through our routines at lightning speed—so many choices, so many distractions. Is it possible to slow things down long enough to create a life that feels purposeful? Absolutely. That’s what intentional living is all about.
Let’s pull up a chair together and explore how a few mindful shifts can make every day feel more aligned, impactful, and, honestly, more YOU.
What Does It Mean To Be Intentional?
Intentionality isn’t about over-planning or turning your life into a spreadsheet (phew!). It’s about waking up and choosing, again and again, how you want to show up—for yourself, for your work, and for your relationships.
Being intentional means you don’t just react to whatever comes your way. Instead, you act with clarity and purpose.
Here’s the secret: Intentional living isn’t rigid. It’s more like having a compass than a map. The compass? Your values, goals, and what matters most to you. The map? That’s the world, ever-changing and full of surprises.
Intentionality offers you the power to respond, not just react.
Real-World Example
Consider my client, Laura. She started every day by getting on her phone, checking emails, scrolling news, and quickly spinning into overwhelm. Instead, she started her mornings with five quiet minutes reflecting on one question: “What do Iwant to create today?” That tiny shift led to big changes—Laura began prioritizing her most important projects and showed up more present for her team. One small intentional step, every single day. For me, I start my day with anticipating surprises! This allows me to look forward to unexpected things and creates excitement around the mundane.
How Can I Be Intentional In My Life?
Great question. You don’t need to overhaul your entire world to start living with purpose. Small, meaningful steps make all the difference.
1. Start With Awareness
Begin by tuning in. Awareness is the first and most powerful step in intentional living. Ask yourself:
What am I saying “yes” to each day (by default and by choice)?
Are my daily actions connected to my bigger goals and values?
Where am I feeling drained? Where am I energized?
Pro tip: jot these reflections down. You’ll start to spot patterns and discover where you want more (or less) intention.
2. Create Gentle Daily Rituals
Pick one daily ritual and give it a purpose—your morning coffee, a walk, or simply jotting down your top three priorities for the day. For years, I’ve started my Mondays by asking: “What’s the ONE thing that would make this week a win?” It guides my choices and brings focus to even the most chaotic weeks.
3. Make Decisions With Clarity, Not Just Urgency
Ever say yes to something, then immediately regret it? (You’re not alone!) Being intentional is about pausing before the “yes”—asking yourself, “Does this commitment align with who I want to be and what matters right now?”
If you struggle here, working with a success coach is transformative. Someone outside your swirl can help you notice your blind spots, clarify needs, and set up decision habits that reflect your purpose.
4. Reflect—Then Adjust
Intentionality isn’t about perfection; it’s a daily reset. At the end of your day, answer: “What felt purposeful? Where did I drift?” Celebrate even the tiniest wins. Adjust—no judgment needed.
What Does It Mean To Be Intentional With Someone?
Intentionality isn’t a solo practice—it transforms relationships, too. Being intentional with someone means showing up on purpose, not just out of routine or obligation.
Instead of defaulting to “How was your day?” (while scrolling your phone), try these:
Set aside uninterrupted time for conversation.
Ask curious questions: “What’s been on your mind lately?” or “How can I support you right now?”
Follow up. Intentionality shows up in remembering the details that matter to others.
I once coached a team leader who began scheduling quick five-minute check-ins with her direct reports—no agenda, just space for connection. The effect? Engagement and trust skyrocketed.
Intentional relationships aren’t about grand gestures—they’re about those small, consistent moments when you choose to truly see and hear each other.
Reflection Prompts For Your Intentional Living Practice
Ready to get practical? Here are some prompts to spark your thinking:
What does “a day well-lived” mean to you?
Where, in your work or life, have you been on autopilot?
Who would benefit if you showed up with more intention?
What’s one small change you can make this week to invite more purpose into your routine?
Jot your thoughts down (or, let’s be real, drop them in your Notes app)—then revisit them as you move through your week. You might be surprised at what shifts!
Thanks for being here,
💛 Shea
