Reflecting on Intention
“An unintentional life accepts everything and does nothing. An intentional life embraces only the things that will add to the mission of significance.” ~ John C. Maxwell
We have been focusing on intentionality in August. As we enter our last week of the month, we will continue exploring this idea. When I searched for words and phrases that related to being intentional, here are some examples I found: deliberate, purposeful, planned, to act with determination, the product of attention directed to a certain area. As you read these words and phrases, did any stand out as relating to the beginning of your school year?
Before we even meet our students, we often attend professional development meetings, set goals with our teaching teams, and begin planning activities for the school year. Being intentional is at the heart of who we are as educators and leaders. During this time, we are also invited to be intentional in our personal lives, establishing boundaries and naming priorities.
In our quote for today, John Maxwell writes, “An intentional life embraces only the things that will add to the mission of significance.” Take a few moments, or maybe even some intentional breaths, to create an opportunity to reflect on your “mission of significance” for this school year. (You may find it helpful to write down or record your answers in some way.)
What is the foundational purpose for the work you are doing?
What are the most important pieces in your personal life?
How are your words, actions, and priorities leading to a positive, productive outcome?
What does “significance” look like in your personal and professional life?
What would you like your “mission” to be this year?
As you take time to consider an intentional “big picture” for the upcoming days, weeks, and months, my hope is that you would feel inspired in your work. May you feel connected to your passions and goals in a new, exciting way. May you pursue balance between your personal and professional roles. And may your intentional mindset and actions that follow bring about significance in your spaces of learning and living this year.
