As I sit to write this blog post I wonder what kind of year 2021 will be for me. I wonder what kinds of things I will do, what new things I may learn, where I might go. My one wish for 2021 is that whatever I do and whatever happens, I will be intentional in my actions and reactions.
What does it mean to be have an intentional life? Wikipedia states, “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.”
Rather than making resolutions or promises that I probably won’t keep, I want to live an intentional life. How am I going to do this? This next year I want to go hiking at least twice a month starting in April or May. In order to do that I have to set a plan in motion so I am not wheezing on the trails. First of all, I will need to exercise. I am continuing with my Beachbody on Demand workouts and am really enjoying that so that will hopefully be an easy win. The second thing I need to commit to is healthy eating. Christmas was brutal for baking, snacks and junk food and the only person I have to blame is myself since I bought it and brought it into the house. Now I need to make a mind shift and instead of reaching for a cookie or some crackers when I want a snack, I need to have the healthier choices available. Fresh veggies that I can much on for that crunch. Fruit or berries for that sweetness.
I am very thankful that my husband has these same goals. I know that not everyone has the support of family members. I hope for you that you can dig deep to find the courage to take the next step for you and your life. That you can find someone who will encourage you, motivate you and keep you accountable. There are many online support groups available to you so if you can’t find that mentor or accountability partner, you can always try reaching out online.
This next year I also want to take at least one course for business improvement. I am fortunate that the company I work for sets up Individual Learning Plans so we can do this. I already have my plan. I am just waiting for the word to execute this plan. For personal improvement, I am always on the lookout for how to do things online. Whether it is re-potting of my houseplants or learning to make new yummy dishes, I love to try new things.
My other goals for this year include reading more, listening to music rather than watching television, playing games rather than watching movies, doing more puzzles and committing to writing my blog posts once a week. For most, these goals seem simple and probably even silly. For me, they are lofty and challenging.
Whatever you do this year, I hope it is filled with intention and purpose.