The Five Priorities of an Intentional Life
Throughout my life, I’ve been a dedicated learner, drawn to the science behind phenomena, the depths of philosophical ideas, and the essence of spirituality that underpins all religions. My extensive exploration across these diverse fields has led me to identify five core areas that, when nurtured, lead to a life brimming with fulfillment and satisfaction.
At our core, we all seek the same fundamental experiences. We long to feel and express love, to grow and evolve, to serve a purpose greater than ourselves, to indulge in fun and play, and to create and leave a lasting impact on the world. Ultimately, we aspire to reach the end of our journey with the satisfaction of having lived fully, leaving nothing unexplored or unexpressed.
I believe that in today’s rhetoric there is too much pressure on finding your ‘passion’ or ‘purpose.’ The pressure of 1. knowing what this is for yourself and 2. becoming overly attached to it has put people in a place of lack and comparison. You may not always identify with a particular passion or purpose at certain times in your life. This also puts pressure on it being a destination to get to. If you are fully present in each moment of your experience you will feel purposeful along the journey. I have defined the five priorities of an intentional life to help people live in line with ways that bring them more into connection with themselves and their connection to the present moment. Here is a breakdown of each:
LOVE
Love is the foundational pillar of an intentional life. It’s the driving force behind our relationships, our compassion, and our connection to others. By prioritizing love, we open our hearts to give and receive affection, kindness, and understanding. Love enriches our lives, fosters deep bonds, and creates a sense of belonging and community.
GROW
Growth is the pursuit of continuous improvement and self-discovery. It’s about expanding our knowledge, skills, and perspectives. By embracing growth, we challenge ourselves to step out of our comfort zones, learn from our experiences, and evolve into our best selves. Growth brings a sense of achievement and progress, fueling our passion for life.
SERVE
Service is the commitment to contributing to something greater than ourselves. It’s the act of giving back, making a difference, and positively impacting the lives of others. By prioritizing service, we find purpose and fulfillment in our actions, knowing that we are part of a larger mission. Service fosters a sense of connection to all.
PLAY
Play is the celebration of joy, curiosity, and spontaneity. It’s about allowing ourselves to have fun, to laugh, and to embrace the lighter side of life. By prioritizing play, we nurture our inner child, relieve stress, and bring a lightheartedness to our lives that are often overshadowed with seriousness. Play fuels our imagination and keeps our spirits vibrant and alive.
CREATE
Creation is the expression of our unique talents, ideas, and passions. It’s about bringing something new into existence, whether it’s art, innovation, or even another human. By prioritizing creation, we leave our mark on the world and contribute to its richness and diversity. Creation empowers us to share our gifts and make a lasting impact.
Humans are innately curious and driven by a hunger for more, and this search stems from an inner knowing that there is a way to experience all that life has to offer. I believe that by maintaining a healthy balance between these five priorities—love, grow, serve, play, and create—we can build the life we've been searching for. This balance will help us experience the peace, love, and joy that are our human birthright. Embrace these priorities, and you’ll find that the possibilities for a fulfilling and intentional life are truly limitless.
