Intentional living in today’s world can be difficult for many. This is because values are constantly changing as the world undergoes rapid technological, cultural and demographic transformation. The price of this tremendous change appears to be the pressure for people to conform to particular societal patterns or norms, often at the expense of personal happiness.
Living intentionally involves making deliberate decisions that are in line with our beliefs and objectives, rather than just going through the motions. To build the life we want, it entails defining our goals, making significant intentions, and acting consciously. We enable ourselves to live truly and purposefully, despite social pressures and expectations, by adopting intentional living.
This blog looks at the importance of intentional living in a world of changing values and proffers insights on how we can embrace this philosophy today.
Change demands a choice
“The Lion and the Jewel” is a play by Wole Soyinka that explores the clash of tradition versus modernity, and the rejection and adoption of intentional living through the conflicting ideologies of its main characters. It is set in a village in Nigeria called Ilunjinle.
Sidi, a beautiful woman, is sought after by the men in the village, while Lakunle, a modern, Western-educated man, advocates for progress and change. The village chief, Baroka, represents the old ways of life and rejects traditional customs and values.
Lakunle’s approach is often characterized by arrogance and a lack of understanding of the village’s traditions. Sidi initially enamours herself with Lakunle’s modernity and ideas, but as the play progresses, she realizes the importance of her cultural heritage and the value of traditional practices.
She ultimately rejects Lakunle’s proposal to become his “modern wife” and chooses to marry Baroka, embracing her role as the village chief’s bride and preserving the traditions of her community. Sidi’s adoption of intentional living is portrayed through her decision to honour her roots and cultural identity, despite the allure of modernity.
Challenge to intentional living
Living intentionally in a world of changing values comes with its own set of challenges. Social values are always changing due to a variety of forces, including cultural influences, technological developments, and world events.
It’s important to acknowledge how these values are shifting in today’s environment, from changes in work-life balance to altered perspectives on relationships and purchasing habits. We may find ourselves grappling with the pressures of conformity, the fear of missing out(FOMO), and the temptation to prioritize external validation over inner fulfilment.
Moreover, navigating conflicting priorities and societal expectations can sometimes make it challenging to stay true to our authentic selves. However, by cultivating self-awareness, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose, we can overcome these obstacles and stay grounded in our intentional living journey. We can better negotiate the challenges of contemporary living and make decisions that are consistent with our values and personal beliefs if we remain aware of these changes.
Intentional living strategy
To live intentionally, we must take the initiative to live our lives in a way that is consistent with our values. This includes:
- Defining one’s priorities and values: Consider the things that are most important to you, and note the values that influence your choices.
- Establishing deliberate objectives and limits: Establish boundaries and well-defined objectives that uphold your moral principles and safeguard your wellbeing.
- Developing appreciation and awareness: To remain in the present and conscious of the important times, practise mindfulness. Develop an attitude of thankfulness for all of life’s benefits to help you feel more fulfilled.
- Creating Communities That Support You: Surround yourself with people who share your beliefs and encourage you to live an intentional life.
Conclusion
Intentional living provides us with direction and authenticity as we navigate the challenges of contemporary living in a world marked by constant change and uncertainty. Even in the face of constantly shifting cultural norms, we can build a deeper feeling of fulfilment, meaning, and connection in our lives by adopting intentional living principles and making decisions that are consistent with our values. Together, let’s get on this journey of intentional living, accepting change as a chance for development and transformation and paving our own route to a life that is more meaningful and purposeful.
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