We all have things we need to do. We must work, we have people to take care of, and we always find ways to be busy. But, how often do we think about what we are doing? How often do we act with intention? To be intentional, you must be able to articulate what your values, priorities and goals are.

Intention means doing things with a plan and purpose. The first step is to structure your day. Make a list of the important tasks that need to be accomplished (and question if they are really that important). Setting daily priorities helps to unclutter your day and lets you accomplish more.

Time is precious and it is the one commodity we will not get more of. Do not waste it. Be willing to say “no” when asked to do something that is too time consuming or will stretch you to thin.

Strengthen your relationships with others. When we get busy, we tend to take our relationships for granted. While this is unintentional. It is critical to focus on the people that are important to you, both personally and professionally.

How we think about life and make decisions is all based on our mindset. There is a lot of research that demonstrates when you choose to be happy (and it is a choice) you tend to be happier, which leads to more success.

Pay attention to the media you consume. The average person will consume 12 hours and 19 minutes of media everyday between television, internet and social media. While it is true that media helps us share information and stories, it is also a huge waste of time when we follow a thread down an “internet rabbit hole.” Set intentions and boundaries before you begin.

Choose to be kind. This is an intentional choice of the type of person you want to be. Being kind does not make you a pushover, it makes you someone others want to interact with (and that is good for business).

Finally, take time to rest and reflect. This time for you to figure out if you are reaching your goals and consider how to do you best and more important work.

Be intentional with everything you do. See your goals come into focus. And thrive.