Living Intentionally: How to Take Ownership of Your Life and Develop Your Why

“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” - Friedrich Nietzsche

Taking Accountability for Your Choices

Don’t fall into the trap of blaming external circumstances for what is wrong in your life. There are a countless number of excuses for why your life is not going the way you want. Your boss is a jerk. Your parents were terrible. Instead of adopting a victim mentality, take ownership of your decisions and actions. If you are unhappy in your job, consider what steps you can take, such as seeking further education or looking for new employment opportunities. If your parents made some mistakes, learn from them and move forward. Ultimately, taking accountability of your life is a decision not to blame external circumstances and focus on the things within your control.

Clarifying Your Intentions with a Deep Reflection Exercise

One impactful exercise to clarify your intentions is to write your eulogy. While it may seem morbid, this practice serves as a powerful reflection on what truly matters to you. Think about how you want to be remembered and what legacy you aspire to leave behind. Identify your "why". What makes you excited and gives your life meaning? What makes it worthwhile to get out of bed each morning? Few things in this life are certain. But one of the certainties is that this life does not last forever. Don't let the few moments you have pass by without striving for the life you want to live.

Developing Your Core Values

Understanding your values is crucial to taking accountability for your life and living intentionally. Values act as a compass, guiding your choices. Perhaps family, health, or your career are of great values for you. I suggest choosing timeless values that resonate in all areas of your life such as honor, courage, or humility. Embracing unchanging virtues and principles act a anchor in a chaotic world.

Cultivating Positive Habits

Taking accountability and identifying your values are critical. However, without forming positive habits our best intentions have a habit of falling by the wayside. Our daily habits shape our lives in significant ways. They can either move us toward our goals or hinder our progress. Start small and be consistent. If your aim is to improve your physical health, begin with a 15-minute daily walk or incorporate a healthy meal into your routine. Over time, these small changes can lead to substantial improvements. Do not underestimate the impact of consistent positive habits over time.

However, be conscious of the habits you might be forming unintentionally. Bad habits can easily derail your efforts. Regularly assess your routines and adjust as necessary to ensure you are encouraging habits that support intentional living. By modifying just a couple of your routines, you can foster a healthier lifestyle and better productivity.

Surrounding Yourself with Supportive Relationships

Another important aspect of living intentionally is surrounding yourself with supportive people. Building a network of individuals who uplift and inspire you is crucial for your growth and success. Seek relationships that encourage accountability and foster a positive environment. Spend time with the friend that encourages you to hit that gym session or the friend that challenges you to grow.

The Power of Conscious Living

Living intentionally is about taking ownership of your life and making choices that resonate with your values. By developing your “why,” forming positive habits, and surrounding yourself with supportive individuals, you can create a fulfilling and purpose-driven life. The journey of intentional living is ongoing. It’s never too late to start making choices that reflect your the life you want to live and the person you want to be.