January might be the month when setting goals for the new year ahead is at the forefront of our minds. However, each day is a chance to live intentionally. It is all too easy to slip into auto-pilot mode and let far too much time slip by without getting any closer to our goals. Chandler-based fitness influencer, model, writer and mom-of-two, Lori Young, shares tips for living intentionally.
In order to live intentionally, we must first know where we are. Think of looking at a map of the rides at Disneyland. If you want to go to the Haunted Mansion, you need to first know where you are and be looking for the “you are here” to determine the most efficient path to get there.
Since life doesn’t provide us with such a clear-cut “you are here,” you need to know yourself better. Ask yourself, “What do I want to achieve in life?”
Once you get a clear vision of what you want, then you need to ask yourself, “What are the toxic thoughts or habits that are preventing me from moving forward?” We all have them, so you have to first identify yours. Fear of failure? Worried about what other people will think of you? Imposter Syndrome? A bad habit of procrastinating? What is it?
Habits don’t break easily. You have to really work toward resetting your mind. You must be intentional. Set small goals, and celebrate every success. We must focus in on our goals every single day. Journaling is an excellent way to do this.
The most effective daily action-oriented journal I have found is @dailydeposit. It has you create a game day list each night in preparation for the next day. The game day list is just five tasks that need to be accomplished. These are not just any tasks, though. They are tasks that align with your future vision and, when completed, bring you one step closer to your goal.
Completing five tasks seems very doable, but it’s not easy when they are five needle-moving tasks. At the bottom of the Daily Deposit, there is a “win/lose,” so you either win the day or lose the day. I hate losing, but even when I lose, I’m still accomplishing more because I truly push myself each day to WIN! You think that checking things off of a to-do list is satisfying? Just wait until you circle “win” at the end of your day.
Finally, reflect on your progress at the end of every week. Are your daily goals achievable or do they need some tweaking? Your future vision is yours for the taking; however, action is required. Start taking intentional strides today.