How Intentional Are You About Your Life and Work?
Most of us are told that success comes from setting clear goals, making detailed
plans, and following a well-defined path. But what if the real key is knowing when to
be intentional—and when to leave room for the unexpected?
Looking back on my career, I realise I’ve led a largely unintentional life. Out of 13
jobs over 30 years, I only applied for three. The rest? They came from saying yes to
opportunities that sparked my curiosity—that made my stomach flip just a little.
But in the past three years, I’ve shifted. I start each morning reminding myself that
everything I do is a choice. The meetings I take, the work I do—it’s directed by me. I
remind myself to be intentional about the day. To live in the present and be open and
curious about what the engagements might bring. Rather than to approach my
computer with a sense of ‘I must do this’, instead to think about what I want to do
there.
When January rolled around, like many others, I reflected on my year ahead. But I
quickly realised something: I didn’t want to set rigid goals or detailed KPIs. It didn’t
feel right. Other than a financial target (the mortgage still needs paying), I’m leaving
things open. I am being intentionally undirected.
It might seem like avoidance, but I trust my gut. By not fixating on specific outcomes,
I stay open to the right opportunities rather than being blinded by predefined goals.
So, what’s the lesson here? The pattern I see is this:
Be intentional about the small things—the meetings, the daily
work, the way you show up.
Be open and curious about the bigger picture—the career moves,
the long-term direction.
Given how dynamic the world is, this balance makes sense. I can control my day-to-
day, but beyond a week, things get fuzzy. A year out? Unknowable. In the complexity
and speed of change in which we live today, remaining flexible is a basic ingredient of
success.
I don’t regret my choices—intentional or not. Some led to difficult places, but they
also brought growth, relationships, and unexpected rewards.
So I’ll keep blending intentionality with unintentionality. And if you’re feeling stuck
between rigid planning and going with the flow, maybe this approach is worth
considering.
What’s your balance between planning and openness?
Best wishes,
Xenia
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