This is part 4 in a series dedicated to how we can accomplish our goals and realize our dreams (also see part 1, part 2, and part 3). By now we have a good understanding of our character strengths, the needs in the world that move us most, the values and principles that guide our lives and we have a mission statement expressing our life's purpose. We also have a description of the life we dream to live in the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we are now ready to make a commitment to transform our life.
As we look at our description of the life we dream to live, we will see many things that will need to change, many of which will look difficult. We must fight the temptation to get overwhelmed and throw in the towel or to start writing many to-dos to transform many things at once. Instead, we need to select just a few areas that we are willing to commit to change.
Like before, we take time to slow down and create a sacred space. Allow ourselves to feel the presence of God in our life and pray that the Holy Spirit fill our whole being so that the decisions we make are aligned with the will of God and not our worldly desires. "The Advocate, the Holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name--he will teach you everything and remind you of all that (I) told you." John 14:26
We then select no more than four specific intentions that will make the biggest impact in living the life God wants us to live. These are intentions that could be realized within a year's timeframe. Becoming is just as important as doing. We review our character strengths, roles, mission statement and other work we have done to remind ourselves of the things that matter most. We must select things that we are willing to give 100% commitment. We must mean it.
There should be one intention for each of the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions to remain balanced. Examples of intentions are: I devote 10 hours a week to care for the elderly at the nursing home; I am able to run a half marathon in less than 2.5 hours; I weigh 135 pounds; I am a certified counselor; I devote at least five hours a week to focused prayer and meditation; I am an organized and and knowledgeable RCIA coordinator.
How is this different than what most people do? We are selecting areas of transformation guided by the Holy Spirit and in complete alignment with our values, principles, strengths, and life purpose. We know why we want to do these things and this is motivating. Our intentions are balanced. We are limiting the number and only writing down those that we are willing to make a commitment to.
Because of the way our mind works (I'll dedicate future posts on this) it is important to write our intentions in a positive tone and in present tense, as if it is happening now. Instead of 'lose' 10 pounds, say 'weigh' 135 pounds.
We are now well on our way to accomplish our goals and realize our dreams!
May God bless you in your journey!
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