Out with Casual-ness: In with Intention

Written By : Molleigh Mae

I can’t be the only one feeling that extra push. That motivation and deliberate direction of my thoughts. Am I... old?? Don’t get me wrong, casual-ness is definitely a lifestyle a lot of people live throughout later years of their life, but read my take on why I think it could be negatively affecting you and why you should make the shift to living life with more intention behind your actions. You heard it here, casual-ness is no longer cool.

Intention is to have a purpose or objective behind an action or decision. Hello!! Why would you not want to make all decisions with a purpose behind them?? and I’m talking about a good one. I find this very important because the power of intentionality will have you living a more purposeful life. Each day- you take control, guide yourself, and align your actions with your values. I guess the only way we are staying casual is acting in an unhurried way, but with greater goals than before. Another way I see the word intention is: done with your best effort.

So, how do I become more intentional? I ask myself this all the time. How do I make people feel recognized and how could I have been more deliberate? Getting clarity and focus by really leaning into how I am carrying myself, increased productivity with a plan behind my time, and setting goals for myself. Being intentional through your decisions doesn’t only benefit yourself and your actions, it will also benefit the status of your relationships. With casual-ness in a relationship, there comes a lack of boundaries, accountability, and most importantly promise. Security is proven by their intention behind their actions, whether they are good or bad. I notice a huge shift in the health of my relationships that are being nurtured with communication, remembering, acts of kindness, and maintaining strong connections by being intentional. This does not mean constantly going above and beyond, your intentional actions will not be spared even if they are occasional. My personal favorite way of being intentional is writing to my loved ones. I enjoy cards, letters, long texts, but letting them know I’m thinking about them, and staying disciplined to dedicate time to this, makes me smile, but also know that I intend to make them smile. A way I am leaning into this, is creating a personalized stationary to have lying around, this way I can easily jot down my “I Love Yous”. Living intentionally requires effort, but the rewards are immense. Start today, and discover a life of confidence, purpose, and fulfillment.

Areas to apply your Intention:
Time management: scheduling, prioritizing Financial decision: budgeting, saving
Personal growth: goal setting, self-care
Work and career: aligning with values, seeking purpose

Overcoming obstacles:
Identify limited beliefs
Manage procrastination and perfectionism Building self discipline and accountability

Tips for maintaining an Intentional lifestyle:

Set clear goals and priorities
Practice mindfulness and presence Eliminate distractions, keep at minimum Create routines and habits