Living with Intention: Seizing the Moment to Prioritize Wellness and What Truly Matters

Hi Ladies,

Can you believe we’re just weeks away from welcoming a new year?  Time seems to be flying by, especially with the whirlwind of the holidays upon us.  Between being a mom, wife, professional, and the go-to caretaker for everyone else, it’s easy to feel like you’re running on autopilot, trying to keep your head above water.

Recently, I experienced a moment that brought everything into perspective.  My beloved dog, Bentley, passed away, and I found myself struck by the raw reminder of how quickly life can change.  At the vet’s office, I heard a grieving father tell his daughter, “Life comes at you fast.” Those words stuck with me and continue to echo in my mind as I reflect on how precious life truly is.   Losing Bentley was a wake-up call to stop just managing each day and start living each day with purpose.

Life doesn’t wait for us to catch up—it keeps moving.  As a nurse practitioner, I’ve seen the toll that constant busyness can take on our health—physically, emotionally, and mentally.   But here’s the thing: even in the chaos, we hold the power to pause, realign, and choose wellness.

If you desire to live life with intention and purpose, here are five ways you can take practical steps to make intentional choices that achieve your wellness goals, even when life comes at us fast.  Each of these steps can keep us grounded, guiding us toward the balance and health we deserve.

1. Prioritize Your Health Like You Would Prioritize Family

When it comes to wellness, consistency is key.  We often go to great lengths to keep our loved ones happy and safe.  What if we took that same dedication and applied it to our own health? Commit to setting aside time each week to meal prep, exercise, or simply rest.  Treat it as non-negotiable as you would a family obligation.

2. Build Small Habits into Your Day

When life gets hectic, it’s easy to fall off track with big, ambitious goals.  Instead, focus on small, sustainable habits that fit right into your daily routine.  Choose simple acts of self-care: Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning; take a brisk ten-minute walk in the evening; or spend five minutes reflecting on what you’re grateful for each day.  Small habits done regularly are like drops of water in a bucket – over time, they fill up to create lasting change.

3. Declutter Your Mental Space

Mental wellness is just as important as physical wellness.  When your mind is cluttered with stress, it’s hard to stay intentional.  Take time each week to jot down your thoughts, let go of unnecessary worries, and clear mental space for what matters.  Think of it as housekeeping for your mind.  When we let go of mental clutter, we create room for clarity, focus, and intention in our daily choices.

4. Listen to Your Body’s Signals

Too often, we ignore the cues our bodies give us.  If you’re feeling drained, it’s okay to rest.  If you feel anxious or unsettled, take a few deep breaths and sit quietly for a moment.  Our bodies are wise, constantly communicating what they need. Developing the habit of tuning in can help us make better choices, whether it’s adjusting our diet, taking a break, or seeking support.

5. Set Realistic, Manageable Goals for Yourself

The pressure to achieve lofty health goals can be overwhelming.  Give yourself permission to start small.  If you’re aiming to move more, start with 15 minutes a day.  If you want to eat healthier, swap one snack for something nutrient-rich.  Bit by bit, these manageable goals become habits that are easier to sustain.  Remember, wellness isn’t a race – it’s a marathon.  Pace yourself and take pride in each small win along the way.

An Intentional Path Forward:

As we approach the end of this year, there’s a fresh opportunity to lean into our wellness goals with purpose.  Life may come at you fast, but every day is a new chance to choose what matters most.  Finish the year strong by focusing on intentional choices that reflect the person you want to become.  Take it one choice at a time, one step at a time, and always remember to Make Wellness your best Accessory!

Your sister in wellness,

Lauren