“A life well lived is the sum total of a vast number of moments lived well.”
- Erwin McManus, The Artisan Soul
I am an avid reader and have gained incredible insight into various topics through the wisdom of many great authors. My favorite topic is self-development and lifestyle design. I believe that if we can live each day with purpose, passion, and intentionality then we can create a life lived to the fullest. Below is a compilation of ideas and strategies that I have embraced in my own life to create a plan that enables me to learn, grow, and thrive.
Find your Purpose. Pursue your passions. Develop a vision for your life and tell your story.
- Design your life – what are you doing with your one and only life?
- Be authentically you: utilize your unique talents and personality
- Purpose happens within the context of community and relationships
- “We ask Him to make us all he intended us to be – to tell us who we are and what we are to do now.” – John Eldredge
- “When you are passionate about God, you can trust your passions. God uses our passions as a compass to guide us.” – Erwin McManus
Establish your values and principles. Live them out each day.
- Invest your time and resources wisely
- Make time for important things – spiritual and personal health and development, family and relationships, memorable experiences and fun
- Live intentionally - Make healthy choices and habits, quality over quantity
- Structure = Freedom
- Act on priorities daily – be proactive, consistent and authentic
- “Your life is intended for greatness. Discipline yourself so that one day you will see it.” – Bill Hybels
Strive to reach your full potential and optimize life.
- What does the best version of you look like?
- Constant pursuit of progress and improvement
- Develop a growth mindset
- Live abundantly – in a way that is soul satisfying
- “We were created to strive for progress and pursue it with passion.” – Erwin McManus
- “Live in such a way that, in word and deed, all the gifts, all the vision, all the passion, and everything God has put inside you is used to the fullest possible extent.” –Louie Giglio
Life is a Process. Enjoy the journey.
- Struggles and challenges lead to growth; Trials and testing develop character and perseverance
- Fail forward – learn from every failure and don’t repeat your mistakes
- Take little steps in the right direction to set yourself up for long-term success
- “God doesn’t relish in our sufferings but delights in our development.” – Max Lucado
- “Make every day your masterpiece.” – John Wooden
Make a positive impact in the lives of others. Be a good steward of the gifts you are given.
- Live to love and love to live – love, support, and encourage; worship God with your life
- Add value and bless others by the way you live
- Share your knowledge and passions - teach, mentor, and inspire
- “Your best friend is he who brings out the best in you.” – Henry Ford
- "With God’s help – His power, encouragement, and energy flowing through our lives along with the gifts, abilities, and talents He has given us – we can shape the future. Be intentional and choose to envision a life of significance, possibility, and impact. Be intentional about encouraging others. It lifts others up, and it lifts you up too. Let your life be an encouragement to everyone." –Tony Dungy
It's important to know where you are, where you are headed, and how you will get there. Do you have a vision for your life? Have you determined your priorities, passions, and dreams for your future? I encourage you to start putting together a list of your favorite quotes, ideas, and goals so that you can start to live intentionally! Comment below with some of your ideas and let's continue to grow together!