morning intention setting
2024, may 26
when i’m facing a busy work marathon, i start my day with an intention-setting walk. during this walk, i ask myself a series of questions to help ease the pressure and make my day lighter while still making progress on what’s important.
i usually do this intention-setting via voice messaging with my best friend. but of course, there are many ways to do it: by journaling, talking to a colleague, talking to chatgpt, or simply doing it in your head.
questions for intention-setting
what motto or mantra can guide me today?
this could be something like:
— ‘i’m done when it’s good enough’ (not perfect)
— ‘focus on one step at a time’ (rather than the whole mountain to climb)
— ‘any doubts are staying outside today, and i can check in with them tomorrow morning’
what’s one thing that will help me stay focused today?
this could be something like:
— check my phone only in the breaks
what’s one thing that can make my work more enjoyable and effortless today?
this could be something like:
— work in bed, snuggled up in a blanket
— for the mini-essay, write down just your main thought (rather than ten thoughts)
what can i declutter from my day today?
this could be something like:
— no need to squeeze in the gym today. put the gym on my not-to-do list.
— the dishes can wait today. put the dishes on my not-to-do list.
what permission do i want to give myself today to make the day even easier?
this could be something like:
— order food instead of cooking
— allow myself to be hurting and complaining (rather than trying to be delighted only because i chose this work and it’s my passion)