Category: Simplicity

Intentional Living, Mindfulness, Simplicity

The Power of Purpose: Living with Intention

Jamie Perkins

·

May 9, 2023
“You can’t be everything to everyone. At some point you need to make a choice about what truly matters to you and why.”
― David Amerland

Intention can be defined as a mental state that represents a commitment to carrying out an action or achieving a goal. It is a deliberate choice that is made with purpose and clarity, and is often accompanied by a strong sense of motivation and focus.

When we live with intention, we are actively engaged in the process of creating and shaping our lives, rather than simply reacting to external circumstances.

Living with intention is a powerful way to approach life, allowing you to focus on what truly matters and make the most of each day. By setting clear goals and actively pursuing them, you can create a purpose-driven existence that aligns with your values and passions.

In this piece, we’ll explore the concept of intentional living and share some practical tips for incorporating it into your daily routine, empowering you to lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.

Living with intention

Living with intention is a popular concept that has been gaining traction in recent years. It involves being mindful and purposeful in everything you do, and making choices that align with your values and goals. At its core, living with intention is about taking control of your life and creating a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.

“If you are not consciously building your habits, they are unconsciously building you.”
― Anika J. Green

Minimalist intentional living is a way of life that focuses on living with less. It’s about being mindful of what we own, what we buy, and what we consume. It’s about making intentional choices that align with our values and priorities.

It involves being mindful of the present moment, setting goals, and taking deliberate steps towards achieving them. When you live with intention, you feel more fulfilled, happier, and more in control of your life.

Understanding the benefits of living with intention

Are you tired of feeling like you’re just surviving instead of thriving? Living with intention can help you break free from that cycle. By setting clear intentions for your life, you can create a roadmap for success and happiness. Let’s talk about some of the benefits of living with intention and how you can make it a part of your daily routine.
- Increased focus and productivity: When we are clear about our goals and priorities, we are better able to focus our energy and attention on the things that matter most. This can lead to increased productivity and a greater sense of accomplishment.
- Greater sense of purpose: Living with intention can help us to clarify our values and goals, and to align our actions with our beliefs. This can create a greater sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.
- Improved relationships: When we are living with intention, we are more likely to communicate our needs and desires clearly, and to make choices that support our relationships. This can lead to stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling connections with others.
- Reduced stress and anxiety: By living with intention, we can reduce the stress and anxiety that often comes from feeling like we are being pulled in multiple directions. When we are clear about our priorities and values, we can make choices that support our well-being and reduce our overall level of stress.
Overall, living with intention is a powerful way to create a life that is filled with purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. By being deliberate about our choices and actions, we can shape our lives in a way that aligns with our values and helps us to achieve our goals.

Living with intention means being aware of your values and priorities and taking deliberate action towards your goals. It is about focusing on what matters most to you, and making choices that align with your vision for your life. A fork in the road can be an adventure rather than an obstacle.

Identifying your values and priorities

Living with intention starts with identifying what is most important to you. Take some time to reflect on your values and priorities. What do you care about most? What brings you joy and fulfillment? Once you have a clear understanding of your values and priorities, you can use them as a guide for making decisions and setting goals.

For example, I choose to thank God for waking up each day and take pleasure in looking for some small way to give back to our community. It can be as simple as sharing a meal with someone, making a donation to a local charity, helping out at our church, or just passing along a kind word to someone who needs one.

It’s important to me to look for ways to show gratitude and to give thanks. Gratitude can remind us focus on what we have instead of what we lack, leading to greater contentment and satisfaction with life.

We all have dreams and aspirations, but how do we turn them into reality? By setting clear goals and identifying our priorities, we can create a roadmap for success.

Setting goals

Setting goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, and time-bound is an effective way to live with intention. When you set goals, you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, how you will measure your progress, and when you plan to achieve it. This helps you stay focused and motivated and ensures that you are taking deliberate steps towards your vision for your life.

Creating a plan of action

Once you have identified your values and set goals, it’s time to create a plan of action. Break your goals down into smaller, actionable steps. Determine what resources you will need to achieve your goals and create a timeline for completing each step. Having a plan in place helps you stay organized and focused and makes it easier to track your progress.

Holding yourself accountable

Living with intention requires accountability. Hold yourself accountable for taking action toward your goals. Check in with yourself regularly to ensure that you are staying on track. If you find yourself falling behind, adjust your plan as needed. Having an accountability partner can also be helpful. Share your goals with someone you trust and ask them to check in with you regularly to ensure that you are making progress.

Living with intention is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and commitment to live a life that aligns with your values and priorities. By identifying your values, setting goals, creating a plan of action, and holding yourself accountable, you can start living with intention today.

“Always listen to experts. They’ll tell you what can’t be done, and why. Then do it.”
― Robert A. Heinlein

Obstacles to living with intention

Living with intention is a practice that requires daily effort and commitment. It’s about being mindful of your actions, thoughts, and goals, and aligning them with your values and purpose. However, there are some obstacles that can slow down your ability to live intentionally. Here are some common obstacles and strategies for overcoming them.

Identifying common obstacles

One of the biggest obstacles to living with intention is the lack of clarity about your values and purpose. Without a clear understanding of what you want to achieve and why it matters to you, it’s hard to make intentional choices and take purposeful actions.

Here are a few common obstacles you may encounter.
- Distractions and timewasters
- Negative self-talk and limiting beliefs.
- Fear of failure or rejection
- Procrastination and lack of motivation
- Perfectionism and unrealistic expectations
These obstacles can prevent you from living with intention by keeping you stuck in a cycle of indecision, self-doubt, and inaction. However, with the right strategies, you can overcome them and move forward towards a more intentional life.

Strategies for overcoming obstacles

If you’re facing a an obstacle, don’t worry. There are all sorts of strategies you can use to get past it. First things first, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you’ve got this! Then, break the problem down into smaller, manageable steps. Don’t try to tackle it all at once.

Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help. Reach out to friends, family, or a professional if needed. You got this!

Here are some strategies that can help you overcome the obstacles to living with intention.
- Clarify your values and purpose: Take time to reflect on what matters to you and why. Write down your values and purpose statement to provide clarity and direction for your life.
- Eliminate distractions: Identify the timewasters and distractions that are keeping you from being intentional. Use apps or tools to block or limit access to social media, email, or other distractions during your focused work time.
- Challenge limiting beliefs: Identify the negative self-talk and limiting beliefs that are holding you back. Replace them with positive affirmations and evidence-based beliefs that support your goals.
- Take small steps: Break down your goals into small, manageable steps that you can take every day. Celebrate your progress and use it as motivation to keep going.
- Cultivate self-compassion: Be kind and understanding toward yourself when you face challenges or setbacks. Use self-compassion practices such as mindfulness and gratitude to boost your resilience and wellbeing.
These strategies can help you overcome the obstacles to living with intention and create a more intentional, purposeful, and fulfilling life. By being mindful of the obstacles and using these strategies to overcome them, you can live with more intention and achieve your goals with greater ease and joy.

Living with intention means living a life that aligns with your values and goals. It involves being mindful of your choices and actions, and making decisions that lead you toward the life you want to live.

Living with intention brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment to daily life. By setting clear goals and values, individuals can make conscious choices that align with their beliefs. This leads to improved mental well-being, stronger relationships, and increased personal growth.

Taking the time to reflect on one’s intentions can help identify areas for improvement. This allows for intentional changes in daily routines and decisions. By focusing on the present moment, individuals can fully engage in their experiences and make meaningful connections with others.

Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as prayer and journaling, can further support intentional living. These techniques help build self-awareness and provide a foundation for personal development. Embracing a life of intention can lead to lasting positive change, both internally and externally.

“Pursue what catches your heart, not what catches your eyes.”
― Roy T. Bennett

It’s Your Life…Make it Count

When you live with intention, you feel more fulfilled, happier, and more in control of your life. Start living intentionally today by identifying your values and goals, being mindful, taking action, and showing gratitude by giving back.
Baby Boomers, Mindfulness, Minimalism, Personal, Simplicity

Ten Minimalism Tips for My 30-Year-Old Self

Jamie Perkins

·

May 8, 2023
Spin back the clock of time…

Embracing minimalism can be a game changer for many, and it’s never too late to start. If you could go back in time and share some wisdom about minimalism with your 30-year-old self, what would you say?

Let’s explore some tips that can help anyone on their journey toward a simpler, more meaningful life. From decluttering tips to prioritizing experiences over possessions, these valuable lessons will resonate with those of us who wish they had discovered the minimalist lifestyle sooner.

“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like.” – Will Rogers

1. Start small

Minimalism is all about simplifying your life by getting rid of unnecessary possessions and focusing on what truly adds value to your life. However, the idea of decluttering your entire life can be overwhelming and daunting.

Instead of trying to declutter your entire life at once, start small. Focus on one area of your life at a time, such as your closet or your kitchen. By making small changes in these specific areas, you’ll start to see progress without feeling overwhelmed.

For example, start by going through your closet and getting rid of clothes you haven’t worn in the past year. Once you’ve tackled your closet, move on to the kitchen and get rid of any appliances or utensils you don’t use on a regular basis. These small changes may seem insignificant, but they add up to big progress over time.

Not only will starting small make the process of minimalism more manageable, but it will also help you stay motivated. As you see progress in one area, you’ll be more inspired to tackle the next area of your life.

Minimalism is a journey, not a destination. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to do everything at once. By starting small and focusing on one area of your life at a time, you’ll be able to make lasting changes that will simplify your life and bring you more joy.

2. Focus on what matters

Minimalism is not just about owning fewer possessions. It’s about focusing on the things that matter most to you, such as your relationships, health, and personal growth.

When most people think of minimalism, they might picture a bare, sterile living space with empty walls and floors. However, minimalism is not just about getting rid of everything you own and living with less. It’s actually about finding joy in what you have, not what you don’t have.

It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of owning more things, thinking that they will make us happier or more successful. But the truth is, the things that make us truly happy are often the simplest things in life.

Think about the possessions that you treasure the most. Chances are, they hold sentimental value or bring back fond memories. Maybe it’s a piece of jewelry that belonged to your mom or a book that you read over and over again as a child. These are the things that matter most, and they are the things that you should focus on keeping.

When it comes to decluttering, it can be difficult to let go of possessions that we feel attached to, even if they don’t bring us joy. But by learning to let go of these items, we can make room for the things that truly matter.

In today’s fast-paced world, it might be easy to get caught up in the noise and distractions that surround you so be careful. You’ll be bombarded with information from every direction, and it can be overwhelming to try and keep up with it all.

But amidst all this chaos, it’s important to remember to focus on what really matters. Keep in mind that less is more.

3. Shift Your Mindset

Minimalism is often associated with getting rid of physical possessions, but it is so much more than that. Minimalism is a mindset that focuses on mental clarity, simplicity, and intentionality. When we embrace minimalism as a way of life, we can experience a sense of freedom and peace that comes from letting go of the excess and focusing on what truly matters.

One of the main benefits of minimalism is mental clarity. When we simplify our lives and remove the distractions of excess stuff, we create more space in our minds for the things that really matter. We can focus on our goals, our passions, and our relationships without being bogged down by the constant noise of clutter and chaos.

Another important aspect of minimalism as a mindset is the ability to focus. When we have a clear idea of what is truly important to us, we can prioritize our time, energy, and resources accordingly. We can say no to things that don’t align with our values and goals, and we can focus on the things that do. This allows us to be more productive, efficient, and effective in all areas of our lives.

Finally, minimalism as a mindset requires intentionality. We must be intentional about the things we bring into our lives and the things we let go of. We must be intentional about our goals and our values. And we must be intentional about how we spend our time and energy. When we approach life with intention, we can create a life that is truly fulfilling and meaningful.

4. It’s Okay to Let Go

Letting go of possessions can be difficult, but it’s important to remember that they are just things. You will feel lighter and experience more freedom once you let go of the things that no longer serve you.

Minimalism is not just about living with less, but about living with purpose. It’s about finding joy in the things that you have, and letting go of the things that don’t serve you.

By simplifying your life and getting rid of the things that don’t matter, you can reduce stress and anxiety, and create more time and space for the things that do. You can also save money by not buying things you don’t need, and you can gain more freedom and flexibility in your life.

5. Quality over quantity

Invest in high-quality items that will last longer, rather than buying cheap items that will need to be replaced frequently. When it comes to minimalism, it’s important to choose quality over quantity when making purchases.

Minimalism is not just about decluttering your physical space, it is also about simplifying your life. Take advantage of opportunities for unique experiences which come your way. You never know if they will come around again.

6. Simplify your schedule

Minimalism is not just about owning fewer possessions, it’s also about simplifying your schedule. Say “no” to the things that you just don’t want to do.

Creating a routine for your daily tasks can help reduce decision fatigue and simplify your life. Instead of spending time and energy deciding what to do next, following a routine can help you focus on what is important and get things done efficiently.

Try creating a morning routine that includes exercise, prayer, or journaling to start your day off on the right foot. Consider reducing your daily options.

Having too many options can be overwhelming and lead to decision paralysis. For example, limit your wardrobe to a few staple pieces that you can mix and match. This not only simplifies your morning routine but also saves money and reduces clutter in your closet. By simplifying your routines, you can reduce decision fatigue and create a more peaceful life.

7. Practice mindful consumption

Mindful consumption is the practice of being aware of the impact of your purchases on the environment, society, and your own personal finances. It involves making intentional and informed decisions about what you buy and how you consume.

Take time to consider whether you really need something before making a purchase. By practicing mindful consumption, you can reduce waste, save money, and live a more fulfilling life.

So, the next time you’re tempted to make an impulse buy, take a moment to consider the impact it will have on your life and the world around you. Focus on buying only what you need, rather than what you want.

Here are some tips to help you practice mindful consumption:
- Research the products you buy to ensure they are good quality.
- Borrow or rent items you need instead of buying them new. Especially single-use or rarely used items.
- Shop local and support small businesses.
- Buy second-hand or refurbished items instead of new ones.
- Reduce your overall consumption by decluttering your home and living a more minimalist lifestyle.
8. Embrace imperfection

Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword. I speak from experience on this one. On one hand, it can push you to achieve your goals and strive for excellence. On the other hand, it can hold you back, causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and ultimately, stuck.

Minimalism isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about simplifying your life and focusing on what truly matters. In your quest for perfection, you may often forget that life is messy and imperfect, and that’s okay. Embracing imperfection is about letting go of the need for everything to be perfect and accepting that it’s okay to make mistakes.

Life is a journey, and it’s important to enjoy every step of the way. When you embrace imperfection, you can appreciate the beauty in the messiness of life. You can learn to enjoy the process, even when it’s not perfect. It’s important to focus on the present moment and find joy in the little things.

Minimalism is not about perfection. It’s about simplifying your life and focusing on what truly matters. Embrace imperfection and let go of the need to have everything “just so.” What a huge relief that is. Trying to be perfect in every aspect of your life can be exhausting. When you embrace imperfection, you can eliminate unnecessary stress and focus on what truly matters. You can prioritize your time and energy on the things that bring you joy and fulfillment.

9. Focus on experiences

Instead of focusing on material possessions, focus on experiences. Travel, try new things, and spend time with loved ones. These experiences will bring more joy and fulfillment than any possession ever could.

Minimalism is all about living a simpler life with fewer possessions and less clutter. But it’s not just about physical belongings. It’s also about the people and experiences we surround ourselves with. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Spend time with those who make you feel good about yourself and encourage you to be your best self. Let go of toxic relationships that drain your energy and bring negativity into your life.

Remember, minimalism isn’t about deprivation or sacrificing the things that bring you joy. It’s about creating space in your life for the things that matter most and letting go of the rest. By surrounding yourself with positivity, you’ll create a happier, more fulfilling life.

This life is short, so say yes to adventures, opportunities to learn and grow, and activities that make you feel alive. Let go of obligations that don’t align with your values or bring you joy. You won’t regret it.

10. Be grateful

Finally, be grateful for what you have. Focus on the things in your life that bring you joy and fulfillment. Gratitude is key in living a minimalist lifestyle.

“At the end of the day, let there be no excuses, no explanations, no regrets.” ― Steve Maraboli

Being grateful is a simple yet powerful way to improve your overall well-being. When you are grateful, you acknowledge the good things in your life, no matter how small they may seem.

It is essential to recognize the good things you have, rather than focusing on the negative. Gratitude can help you shift your perspective, reduce stress, and increase your happiness. So, take a moment each day to reflect on what you are thankful for, and make a habit of expressing your gratitude to those around you.

Being grateful is a choice, and one that can bring positivity and joy into your life. Minimalism can be a rewarding lifestyle that brings more joy and fulfillment into your life. If you’re considering minimalism, start small, focus on what matters, shift your mindset, and be mindful of your consumption habits.

Remember that minimalism is a personal journey and it’s important not to compare yourself to others. Embrace imperfection, focus on experiences, and be grateful for what you have. Don’t wait 30 years to begin!
Simplicity

Simple Living

Jamie Perkins

·

May 1, 2023

The Key to a Happy Life

“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.”
― Confucius

I used to really look forward to the weekend just so that I could “catch up” on some downtime to relax and refresh. The problem was that there was usually so much to do that there never really was any real time to catch up. What does that even mean anyway?

I knew that activities which were not scheduled wouldn’t get done and rarely did I actually schedule any time to just relax. That concept was not a conscious part of my thinking or planning.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get hooked into the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We are constantly bombarded with information, social media notifications, and the pressure to keep up with the latest trends. It’s no wonder that many people feel overwhelmed and stressed out.

The Benefits of Simplicity

Living a simple life can have numerous benefits for your mental and physical well-being. Let’s talk about a few them.

Less Stress

When you simplify your life, you reduce the number of decisions you have to make on a daily basis. This can help to alleviate stress and anxiety, allowing you to focus on what’s truly important in your life.

More Time

By cutting out unnecessary tasks and activities, you free up more time for the things that matter most to you. This could be spending time with loved ones, pursuing your passions, or simply taking a moment to relax and recharge.

Greater Clarity

When your life is cluttered with unnecessary distractions, it can be difficult to see the big picture. Simplifying your life can give you greater clarity and perspective, helping you to make better decisions and achieve your goals more easily.

How to live a simple life

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, it may be time to simplify your life. Give some of these ideas a try.

Declutter

Start by decluttering your living space. Get rid of items you no longer need or use, and organize the things that are left. A clean and tidy living space can help to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.

Focus on the Essentials

Identify the things that are truly important to you and focus your time and energy on those. This could be spending time with loved ones, pursuing your passions, or working toward your goals.

One activity that works well for me, is to head over to the pool and swim a couple of thousand yards. I take it nice and easy and don’t allow any thoughts in my mind which may cause stress or anxiety.

Be sure to make time for leisure in your daily schedule. It won’t happen unless you dedicate the time.

Say “No” More Often

“Real freedom is saying ‘no’ without giving a reason.”
― Amit Kalantri

Learn to say “no” to things that don’t align with your priorities or goals. This can be difficult, but it’s important to remember that your time and energy are valuable resources.

Simplicity may not be easy to achieve in today’s complex world, but it’s worth striving for. By simplifying your life, you can reduce stress, gain more time, and achieve greater clarity and perspective. So why not give it a try?