Why Intentionality is the Major Key to Success

Success is a universal aspiration. It is a beacon that drives individuals like you and me to strive for excellence in every facet of life. We yearn for success in our careers, education, relationships, and personal well-being. To achieve this elusive goal, many of us attend seminars, read books, hire experts, and pursue various avenues of learning to unlock the secrets of success in different areas of our lives. 

Yet, despite our collective desire for success, only a select few seem to make the cut and attain their objectives. So, what sets these successful individuals apart from the rest?
 

The Key to Remarkable Achievement 

Intentionality emerges as a defining trait that separates those who achieve success from those who falter along the way. It is the art of thinking and acting "on purpose" and with purpose, knowing precisely what it takes to control one's own outcomes and shape one's destiny. 

Throughout history, we find remarkable personalities like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Nick Vujicic, Oprah, Elon Musk, and Mark Zuckerberg, who have achieved extraordinary success in their respective fields, all due to their unwavering intentionality.  

The story of Elon Musk shows us what intentionality in action looks like: 

In his desire to make space travel accessible and sustainable, the SpaceX CEO remained steadfast in pursuing his ambitious goals despite facing numerous setbacks and failures. True enough, his intentional approach to innovation and problem-solving has revolutionized the space industry and brought humanity closer to the stars.
 

Success is a Choice 

Each of us holds the potential for success in various aspects of life. However, your path to success isn't random or by luck. The path to success is shaped by the choices you purposefully make and your unwavering dedication to your goals. 

If you genuinely desire success, you must be intentional about pursuing it. 

However, intentionality requires more than mere desire; it demands deliberate action and relentless dedication. To illustrate this, consider the following practical examples: 

Pursuing Physical and Mental Wellness: 

Achieving physical fitness and mental well-being necessitates intentional choices and discipline. To maintain good health, we must be intentional in exercising regularly, even on days when motivation wanes. Opting for early sleep over late-night distractions ensures a well-rested mind and body. Hiring a fitness coach can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the journey towards improved well-being. 

Nurturing Meaningful Relationships: 

In relationships, intentionality is a potent catalyst for building enduring bonds. Expressing love and appreciation to a partner, even during challenging times, strengthens the foundation of a happy relationship. Being patient and compromising with each other's quirks fosters understanding and trust. Genuine appreciation, even when not in the best mood, goes a long way in nurturing love and connection. 

Mastering Personal Finances: 
 
Intentionality plays a vital role in managing personal finances wisely. Seeking guidance from a financial adviser or coach ensures sound decision-making and financial accountability. Cutting back on unnecessary expenses like impulsive shopping and dining out creates a more intentional approach towards financial stability and long-term wealth. 

The Unifying Thread of Intentionality 

While success is undoubtedly influenced by various factors such as hard work, resilience, and creativity, intentionality serves as the unifying thread that binds all these attributes together. Embracing intentionality empowers us to: 

Make Purposeful Decisions: Intentional individuals align their actions with their values and goals, making decisions that lead them closer to their desired outcomes. 

Stay Focused and Manage Distractions: Intentionality enables us to resist the pull of distractions and maintain an unwavering focus on our objectives. 

Persistently Pursue Goals: Those who are intentionally consistently put in the effort to achieve their aspirations, mapping out clear paths to success. 

Gain Clarity of Purpose: Intentionality brings clarity, allowing us to define our aspirations and plan accordingly, be it for our careers, weekly tasks, or personal growth. 

Developing Intentionality

Conversely, lacking intentionality can lead to unfulfilled potential and missed opportunities. Those without clear goals and plans may find themselves adrift, buffeted by the winds of circumstance rather than charting their own course. 

Developing intentionality requires conscious effort and practice. Here are some developmental tips for embracing the power of intentionality: 

Actively Set Intentions: Being intentional starts with taking a step back and asking yourself, "What do I ideally want to achieve?" Whether it's in a business meeting or while planning the week ahead, setting clear intentions provides a guiding light for your actions.  

Embrace Empowerment: Give yourself the empowering gift of setting intentions and taking proactive steps towards your goals. Don't hesitate to claim the driver's seat in your life journey. By acknowledging your ability to shape your own destiny, you can overcome self-doubt and confidently move forward. 

Cultivate Meaningful Interactions: Intentionality extends to the way we interact with others. Foster enriching connections by consciously creating loving, respectful, and purposeful interactions. Whether it's with friends, colleagues, or family, be intentional in making every encounter meaningful and positive. 

Stay Aligned with Your Goals: Intentionality serves as your compass, keeping you aligned with your goals amidst life's distractions. When faced with various temptations and diversions, remember your intentions, and let them guide your decisions. Stay focused on what truly matters, and avoid being swayed from your path. 

Plan and Seek Support: Developing clear plans to achieve your intentions is crucial. Outline actionable steps and set achievable milestones to track your progress. Additionally, don't hesitate to seek professional help, such as working with a coach or advisor. They can offer valuable insights, keep you accountable, and provide support on your intentional journey. 

Be Intentional in Being Intentional

In the words of William Jennings Bryan, "Destiny is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice." The power of intentionality resides within each of us, offering a path to success in every facet of life. By embracing intentionality and making deliberate choices, you become the architect of your destiny, paving the way to greatness. 

Intentionality empowers you to chart a course that aligns with your dreams and aspirations. The journey may not always be easy, but with intentionality, you choose to take charge of your life and create a future that is truly your own.  

So, walk in the path of intentionality; in doing so, you unlock the infinite possibilities of success that await you. 

We are here to help

Intentionality is one of the core competencies of Emotional Intelligence. At  People Builders, we have a team of expert trainers and coaches who will help you and your team develop Social and Emotional Intelligence, Intentionality, and many other competencies.      

Contact us today for a quick chat to see how we can partner with you to train and coach you and your team. If you want to become a certified trainer and coach in Social and Emotional Intelligence or Extended DISC Behavioural Profiling, find out how by visiting the People Builders Institute website.