Be More Intentional

This week I've seen a real clarity in my work. I credit a new technique I learned and have been trying to implement into my daily routine. 

Before each task I ask myself two questions:

1. What is my intention for doing this? 
2. How do I want to feel when doing it?

Think about how often we just go through the day on autopilot, rarely taking the time to question why it is what we do. For years the lack of examination caused me to keep busy without questioning for a moment if what I was doing had any value.

By asking yourself those two simple questions (which takes literally 2 seconds) you prime yourself before tackling your objectives. If it connects with a broader and deep-seated "why," you're driven to do the best work you can. 

And when you condition yourself to feel energized, optimistic, or driven before the work you're more likely to see it through. 

Setting your intention and priming your mind are incredibly powerful techniques for doing your best at work that matters. 

"The Greatest Tragedy of All is Not the Reality of Failure but the Loss of Hope."

Over the years I've seen way too many talented actor and artist friends equate their self-worth with a resume, or IMDB page. And it absolutely breaks my heart. 

Most of us would agree that if you go into the arts in the first place there is a burning desire to express one self that is often accompanied by an equally powerful need for validation. The trouble is, validation from others is not sustainable. It has to come from within. 

We need to change the metrics of how we gauge self-worth and success. We don't have to overlook the impact we can have at home, in our schools, churches, or communities. That counts too. 

In time, a beautiful thing begins to happen. We start to reframe the way we see everything, including failure. We no longer fear it but accept it as an integral part of a longer and broader journey. We learn to take it in stride and in the process recognize the importance of protecting our spirits. We remain hopeful. 

And that is the starting point for great art. 

You Already Have the Answers

There's a lot to be said about someone who always listens to the next self-development podcast, picks up the best book in their field, and attends seminars whenever time and money will permit. I'm a huge proponent of getting better each day in every arena our life.

But that mono-maniacal focus on self-improvement can some at the expense of not taking enough inventory of the answers we already have within. It's important to unplug from time to time from all the terrific resources and trust that our subconscious minds and experiences will lend themselves to some pretty profound insight if we just take the time to listen.

Intuition is an enormously powerful resource that we often don't take advantage of because we don't trust the answers to our deepest questions are already within us.