Living With Intentionality

For the last seven or eight years I have been spending some time periodically thinking through why I do things and what my aims and aspirations are for what I do. I've extended this to consider what I desire to accomplish in many area of my life. When I know what my goals are then I can extend that knowledge to living more intentionally.

I've done this from everything to parenting (my goal is to raise kids with a heart for God and others, who are adventuresome and who will spend their whole lives growing intellectually, emotionally and spiritually) to feeding my family. Since my goal in feeding my family is to use food to nourish them physically and emotionally I am careful about the food I buy and make and also about eating dinner together without distractions. Looking at what I intend helps me to resist distractions and make quicker decisions.

By thinking through what I want to achieve before I attempt a task I'm not blown back and forth and can use my energy more intentionally. This even works for things like decorating a house. My over arching goal in decorating my house is to create a home that is comfortable and visually inviting. I want people who come into my home to feel welcome and relaxed. I also want my husband to like the colors and style even if it means not getting exactly what I would pick out just for myself. Because I've articulated to myself what is most important to me I can continually work at making my home better without the pressure of feeling it must be perfect.

Here's my list of intentions for my home. Some I work at all the time, some I have down pretty well, a few are not attainable in my present home, but I'm hopeful that someday they will be.
1. I want to create and atmosphere of peace and care.
2. I want my home to smell good - not with cover up scents but clean and inviting.
3. I want my home to be orderly and clutter free (still working on this!)
4. I want my home to be kid friendly (I keep boxes of toys for grandchildren and visitors and make sure small objects and cleaners are put away).
5. I want things in my home that remind us of our heritage from our families.
6. I want my home to communicate that I enjoy nature.
7. I want my home to have a large vegetable garden.
8. I'd like to have chickens.
9. I'd like to have a dedicated guest room that is as beautiful and comfortable as the best hotel.