What would your day look like if every action, no matter how small, was done with purpose? How would it differ from your current routine?

I still remember the moment I realized something needed to change. It was early 2020, during the quiet months of COVID, after a big move for work. Alone in my apartment for the first time, I finally had the space to reflect. My life revolved around work, and outside of it, I felt… empty. That realization planted the seed for a deeper journey into intentional living.

We’ve all been there—rolling out of bed at the last possible second, barely making it to work on time. Maybe you’re five minutes late, then 10, then 15. Slowly, that rushed feeling seeps into every corner of your life. By the end of the day, you’re exhausted, unfulfilled, and wondering where the time went. The days begin to blend together.

We all experience moments like this, but they don’t have to define our lives. Living with intention isn’t about being perfect; it’s about making choices that bring fulfillment and joy. When I’m exhausted, I’ve learned that it’s not about doing less—it’s about doing more of what truly matters.

What is Intentional Living?

Intentional living means making deliberate decisions that reflect your values and goals. For me, this shift didn’t happen overnight. I had to confront the reality that working less didn’t automatically make me happier. I needed to fill that time with purpose: prioritizing my health, connecting with like-minded friends, and slowing down to appreciate life’s smaller joys.

There’s a stark difference between living on autopilot and living with intention. When you’re on autopilot, life feels like a checklist—you’re just getting by. But when you slow down and focus on what matters, you breathe deeper, enjoy more fully, and finally give yourself the rest you deserve.

For instance, I used to rely on food delivery almost daily, but I wanted to reconnect with the joy of cooking. Slowly, I started experimenting in the kitchen. Now, when I cook, I savor the process—dancing to music, hearing the sizzle of oil, and marveling at the finished dish. The beauty of intentional living is that it evolves. It’s deeply personal, and it only needs to make sense to you.

Why Living with Intention Matters

Living intentionally brings a greater sense of purpose, reduces stress, and deepens your connection with yourself and others. When I focused solely on work, my joy was confined to such a small scope. But when I opened myself up to intentional living, I found happiness in so many unexpected places.

This concept is especially powerful for busy professionals. In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel pressured to keep up. But here’s the truth: you set the pace for your life. You don’t need to rush through mornings, gulp down your coffee, or battle traffic while juggling a bagel. Instead, imagine savoring your espresso at home or starting your commute with a favorite podcast. Slowing down allows you to uncover joy in even the simplest moments.

Practical Ways to Find Meaning in Everyday Routines

Intentionality doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some small ways to start:

• Morning Routine: Begin with a deep breath in the shower to set a calm tone for the day. Decide what’s non-negotiable (e.g., a five-minute meditation) and what you’d like to do when time allows.
• Work-Life Balance: Use your calendar to set clear boundaries. Block time for personal priorities, whether it’s a lunch walk or savoring coffee during your first emails.
• Evening Wind-Down: Dedicate time to yourself. Journal about your “glimmers” (moments of gratitude), tidy your space for a peaceful environment, or enjoy a relaxing bath.

Living intentionally is about weaving these small joys into your routine, day by day.

Overcoming Challenges

Making changes isn’t easy—especially if you’re overwhelmed or stuck on autopilot. You may feel like there’s no room in your already-packed schedule to add more. But intentional living isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters most.

Start small. Focus on one change at a time. For example, I wanted to reintroduce exercise into my life but didn’t want to overwhelm myself. I started with one weekly yoga class and three treadmill walks. Gradually, I increased my time and added weightlifting. Small, consistent steps led to a lasting routine.

The Ripple Effect of Intentional Living

Just as autopilot living can spread negativity, intentional living can create a ripple of positivity. It can strengthen relationships, increase self-awareness, and inspire a more mindful community.

C.S. Lewis once said, “Isn’t it funny how day by day nothing changes, but when you look back, everything is different?” That’s the magic of intentional living—one small change can set the foundation for a life filled with meaning and joy.

Closing Thoughts

What small step can you take today to live more intentionally? For me, today’s glimmer is the joy of cozying up with friends during a Midwest snowstorm.

I’d love to hear about your daily glimmers or the steps you’re taking toward intentional living. Share in the comments or tag me on Instagram at @mkinthemoment.

Stay tuned for next week’s post, where I’ll break down how to time-block your schedule for success!

Mindfully,
MK