My Journey to Living an Intentional LIFE
This past year, I committed to living intentionally, and it has transformed my life and my family's life in ways I never imagined. As a mother of two and a wife, I knew that the changes I made would impact not only me but also my husband and children. I started by making small but significant changes in our daily routine, and as the months passed, I felt more aligned with my true self, and we became a more connected and fulfilled family.
Clarifying Boundaries
This year, I got clear on my personal and professional boundaries. I realized that by constantly saying “yes” to others, I was essentially saying “no” to myself. Learning to say “no” has been uncomfortable at times, but it’s also been freeing. Setting boundaries has allowed me to protect my energy, prioritize what truly matters, and show up more fully in the spaces where I am needed most.
Simplifying Our Social Calendar
Both my personal calendar and my kids’ calendars were running on overdrive. Playdates, parties, extracurricular activities — it all felt never-ending. This year, I started asking, “Is this activity adding value to our lives?” If it wasn’t a clear yes, it became a no. Our family has more time to be present with one another, unstructured play has made a comeback, and I’ve noticed my kids are happier with fewer obligations. It turns out, "busy" isn’t a badge of honor after all.
Adopting a Minimalist Lifestyle
Minimalism has been one of the most transformative changes of the year. I decluttered my home from top to bottom, donating toys, clothes, and "just in case" items that had been taking up physical and mental space. Walking into a space that feels calm, open, and free of excess has brought an unexpected sense of peace. It’s not just about having fewer things — it’s about creating space for what truly matters.
Reducing Social Media Use
I’m no stranger to the social media scroll trap. What started as “I’ll just check in for 5 minutes” would often turn into a 30-minute scroll session. This year, I set intentional limits on my screen time, unfollowed accounts that didn’t inspire me, and became more mindful of when and why I pick up my phone. I’ve gained back hours of my day and now use that time for meaningful pursuits like journaling, reading, or simply being present with my family.
Creating a Capsule Wardrobe
One of the first changes I made was simplifying my wardrobe. Gone are the overflowing drawers and the "I have nothing to wear" mornings. Instead, I curated a capsule wardrobe of versatile, high-quality items that I love wearing. Every piece has a purpose. The mental clarity I’ve gained from this simple shift has been profound. I spend less time making decisions, experience less stress about my appearance, and feel more confident in my daily choices.
Pursuing Life Coaching and Leaving Education
Perhaps the most significant shift of this year has been my decision to pursue life coaching. After years of working in education, I realized that my true passion lies in helping people achieve their goals. My experience in education gave me a deep understanding of goal setting and support, but life coaching felt like a natural next step. This year, I began working toward my ICF life coaching accreditation and preparing to transition out of education to become a full-time life coach. I’m driven by the desire to help women live more intentional lives.
The Impact of Intentional Living
This year of intentional living has been transformative. I feel calmer, more present, and more in control of my choices. I’m no longer swept along by life’s current. Instead, I’m steering the ship. By simplifying, decluttering, and realigning my daily choices with my values, I’ve created a life that feels authentic and purposeful.
And perhaps the most beautiful part of this journey? It’s not just about me. By living intentionally, I’m modeling these choices for my children, my family, and the clients I support as a life coach. This year has been one of growth, change, and clarity — and I’m grateful for every single step of the journey.
If you’re feeling stuck in autopilot, I encourage you to pause and ask, “Is this choice in line with my values?” Small, intentional changes can lead to big, life-altering results. I’m living proof of that.