WELLNESS
Living with Intention
As National Recovery Month unfolds, I’ve been reflecting on what it really means to be intentional in our lives, especially through the lens of my own journey. For me, being intentional is about making choices that genuinely matter and align with what I’m striving for.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of surrounding myself with the right people. Having a supportive circle—people who uplift and encourage me—has been so important. These relationships help me stay focused on becoming the best version of myself. In recovery, it’s often suggested that you avoid going back to people, places, and things that were harmful to your growth. This principle isn’t just for those in recovery; it can be applied by anyone willing to make a positive change in their life.
Being intentional also means engaging in activities that feed my passions and contribute to my well-being. Whether it’s reading, cooking, blending teas, or practicing habits that support my mental health, these choices help me stay grounded and moving forward. Even the music I listen to plays a role. I’ve found that choosing songs that inspire positively impacts my mood and mindset, while others can lead to intrusive thoughts and old thinking patterns.
Another crucial aspect of being intentional is curating my social media environment. The people I follow, the posts I like, and the content I put out all align with the life I want to live. I make sure to avoid anything that takes me out of myself or my purpose, creating a space that supports my goals and minimizes distractions.
I’ve also learned the importance of self-talk. I don’t jokingly put myself down anymore because I know that subconsciously, I will start believing it. Instead, I look in the mirror every day and find at least one thing to be proud of, carrying that positive affirmation with me throughout the day.
One challenge I’ve faced is that my brain chemistry sometimes makes it hard to avoid acting impulsively. However, I’ve been working hard to be more mindful of my decisions and consider the ripple effects they may have. This awareness helps me to pause and reflect before taking action, ensuring that my choices align with my goals and values. However, while that isn’t always the case, I also remember to show myself some grace and I know that I never do anything with malicious intent.
A key part of living with intention is being self-aware and open to correcting any harmful patterns. It’s about recognizing when something isn’t serving me well and being willing to make changes. This ongoing process of self-reflection and adjustment ensures that every aspect of my life—my relationships, activities, and even my soundtrack—is aligned with the life I’m working to build.
Overall, being intentional is about aligning every part of your life with what you want to achieve and who you want to be. It’s a way to ensure that each choice you make supports the life you’re striving for.
Below are three things I found to be extremely beneficial and are some of the main tools I was given that started me on my wellness journey:
Create a Vision Board: Visualize what you want for your life by creating a vision board with images and words that represent your goals and dreams. This can help clarify your intentions and keep you motivated as you work toward your new path.
Establish Daily Routines: Develop daily habits that support your goals, such as setting aside time for self-care, exercise, or learning new skills. Consistent routines build a strong foundation for making long-term changes and achieving your desired outcomes.
Reflect and Adjust Regularly: Take time each week to reflect on your progress and assess whether your actions align with your goals. Be open to adjusting your approach as needed, and celebrate small victories to stay encouraged throughout the process.