How I’m Intentionally Designing My Life This Year

There’s something about a new season, not just a new year, but a true life shift — that invites reflection. Lately, I’ve been thinking less about doing more and more about doing things on purpose.

For me, intentional living isn’t about routines that feel restrictive or aesthetic checklists that look good online. It’s about designing a life that feels beautiful, grounded, and aligned even on the ordinary days.

This year, I’m choosing to slow down just enough to be present. To create space for what matters. And to let go of the pressure to have everything figured out.

Here’s what intentional living looks like for me right now.

Redefining What “Intentional” Really Means

Intentional living used to feel like another box to check. Wake up earlier. Do more. Optimize everything.

But I’ve learned that true intentionality isn’t about perfection or productivity — it’s about awareness. It’s asking why before saying yes. It’s choosing what stays and what quietly gets released.

This year, I’m designing my life around a few core areas that support how I want to feel, not just how things look.

Creating a Home That Feels Like an Exhale

Home has become more than a place to land — it’s a space to recharge, to gather, to feel held.

Instead of constantly chasing the next project or trend, I’m focusing on:

Warm lighting that makes evenings feel softer, pieces I truly love (even if I add them slowly), and keeping spaces open and livable, not over-styled.

I want my home to feel like an invitation — both to myself and to the people I love. A place where candles get lit on a random Tuesday and guests feel comfortable kicking off their shoes.

Home isn’t meant to be perfect. It’s meant to be lived in.

Hosting With Ease, Not Expectation

Gathering people around a table has always been one of my favorite ways to connect, but this year I’m releasing the pressure to “perform” as a host.

Intentional hosting looks like:

– Simpler menus that allow me to enjoy the night

– Tables that feel thoughtful but not fussy

– Prioritizing conversation over presentation

I’m reminding myself that people don’t remember whether the napkins were pressed — they remember how they felt. And the most meaningful gatherings are often the most effortless ones.

Honoring My Energy and My Health

This year, I’m paying closer attention to my energy — not just my schedule.

That means:

– Moving my body in ways that feel supportive, not punishing

– Fueling myself with foods that feel nourishing and enjoyable

– Letting rest be productive in its own way

I’m learning that honoring my health doesn’t require an all-or-nothing mindset. It’s built in small, consistent choices that add up over time.

Creating With Intention, Not Urgency

As a creative and an entrepreneur, it’s easy to feel like I always need to be producing something new. But this year, I’m choosing to create from a place of clarity instead of urgency.

That looks like: sharing content that feels aligned and not forced, leaving space for ideas to breathe before acting on them, and allowing seasons of quiet creativity.

I’m trusting that slower creation doesn’t mean less impact, and often, it means more.

Letting Go of Perfection (Again and Again)

If there’s one thing I’m continuing to work on, it’s releasing the need for everything to look finished before it’s shared.

Intentional living isn’t about having a polished life. It’s about living honestly.

Some days are productive. Some days are quiet. Some days are messy. And all of them are allowed.

Progress doesn’t require perfection. It just requires showing up.

A Gentle Reminder for You

If you’re feeling behind, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to begin — start small.

Light the candle. Invite the friend. Cook the meal even if the table isn’t styled. Choose one thing that makes your day feel a little softer.

Intentional living isn’t something you achieve.
It’s something you practice, one thoughtful choice at a time.