Be Intentional

“Intentionality fuels the master’s journey. Every master is a master of vision.” -George Leonard

“When you’re not intentional, life gets out of control. When you are intentional, life becomes manageable.” -John C. Maxwell

“Be careful not to lose sight of the divine presence in any of your actions. Never undertake any work or activity without first having lifted your mind to God and committing that activity to him with holy intentions. Do the same when you offer thanks for the outcome of all your actions. Always examine whether things unfolded in accord with the right intentions you had at the outset, and if you find anything defective, humbly ask the Lord for forgiveness with a firm resolution to amend your failings.” -Saint Pio of Pietrelcina

In the morning ask yourself, “What is my intention for today?” Perhaps it’s to be more patient, or have focus, or spread joy everywhere you can. Then throughout the day, especially as challenges arise, come back to that intention.

What you will realize is (a) just like meditation, this is an ongoing practice and (b) unlike outcomes, intentions are within your control. This provides you with some autonomy and agency, in a world filled with uncertainty.

Be intentional for anything you’re doing. It could be the smallest task, like say, brushing your teeth. Before you start brushing, ask yourself “What is my intention?” Then as you do it, just keep coming back to that intention. This helps you stay present, which boosts your mood and overall happiness.

I’ll leave you with this great quote from Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh:

Eat with gratitude. And when you put the piece of bread into your mouth, chew only your bread and not your projects, worries, fears, or anger. This is the practice of mindfulness. You chew mindfully and you know that you are chewing the bread, the wonderful nourishment of life. This brings you freedom and joy. Eat every morsel of your breakfast like that, not allowing yourself to be carried away from the experience of eating. This is a training. When you brush your teeth, how much time can you afford for brushing your teeth? At least one minute, maybe two? Brush your teeth in such a way that freedom and joy are possible, not allowing yourself to be carried away by concerns about what you will do after you are done. “I am standing here, brushing my teeth. I still have teeth to brush. I have toothpaste and a toothbrush. And my practice is to be alive, to be free to enjoy tooth-brushing.” Don’t allow yourself to be a slave of the past or the future. This practice is the practice of freedom. And if freedom is there, you will enjoy brushing your teeth. Resist the tendency to be carried away by your thoughts and fears.