We all have those days where life feels like a never-ending to-do list. Emails, deadlines, family obligations, and unexpected surprises pull us in every direction. But what if I told you that you don’t have to live in reactive mode—constantly responding to whatever life throws your way? Instead, you can design a life that prioritizes your needs, goals, and well-being.
Since today is Valentine’s Day, let’s talk about one of the most important relationships you’ll ever have—the one with yourself. Living with intention is an act of self-love, and in this post, I’m sharing how you can prioritize yourself, your goals, and your well-being every day—not just on February 14th.
In this blog post, I’m sharing my personal journey of moving from reactive living to intentional living, practical strategies to help you do the same, and how small habit shifts can lead to major life transformations.
Why Intentional Living Matters
For years, I believed that staying busy, saying “yes” to everything, and juggling all the things meant I was on the path to success. But eventually, I hit a wall. I felt exhausted, overwhelmed, and disconnected from what really mattered. It wasn’t until I survived a heart attack at 44 that I realized something had to change.
Living with intention is about taking control of your time, energy, and mindset. It’s about creating a life that aligns with your priorities—not just reacting to other people’s expectations.
How to Shift from Reactive to Intentional Living
1. Audit Your Current Routine
Before making changes, take a step back and evaluate how you currently spend your time. Are you constantly putting out fires? Do you feel drained at the end of the day? Keep a log for a week and notice where your time goes.
2. Create a Morning Routine That Sets You Up for Success
My morning routine is a non-negotiable part of my day. It includes:
- Prayer & Meditation – Helps me start the day with gratitude and a clear mind.
- Stretching & Exercise – Keeps my energy high and my body strong.
- Affirmations & Mindset Work – Reinforces confidence and positivity.
When I skip my morning routine, I feel scattered and unproductive. But when I stick to it, my entire day flows better.
3. Use Habit Stacking to Build Stronger Routines
Habit stacking is a game-changer! I first learned about it from Atomic Habits by James Clear. The idea is to attach a new habit to something you’re already doing so it becomes second nature.
Here are some of my personal habit-stacking strategies:
- Grocery Shopping & Cleaning the Fridge – When I bring in new groceries, I take a few minutes to toss out old items and wipe down the shelves.
- Showering & Quick Bathroom Cleanup – Before I step into the shower, I spray the tub with cleaner or wipe down the sink. It keeps things fresh without adding extra work.
- Commute & Mindset Boost – I listen to inspiring podcasts or affirmations while driving to work.
4. Set Boundaries & Say No Without Guilt
Once you identify your priorities, protect them. Learning to say “no” is crucial for living intentionally. If an invitation or request doesn’t align with your goals or energy, it’s okay to decline. Your time is valuable!
Some ways to politely say no:
- “That sounds great, but I need to pass this time. Let’s plan for another day.”
- “I appreciate the invite, but I’m prioritizing rest this week.”
- “I’d love to support, but my schedule won’t allow it right now.”
5. Plan Ahead & Block Your Time
One of my favorite strategies is weekly planning. Every Sunday, I take time to:
- Map out key tasks and goals for the week.
- Block time for deep work, family, and self-care.
- Make sure my schedule reflects what really matters to me.
If you need help organizing your schedule, check out my Ready and Refined Digital Planner —it’s my go-to for staying on track without feeling overwhelmed.
6. Celebrate Progress & Small Wins
Living intentionally is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate the small steps—whether that’s sticking to a new habit, saying no to an unnecessary obligation, or just making it through a hectic week with your sanity intact.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Live with Intention
When you design your life instead of reacting to it, everything changes. You feel more in control, more confident, and more fulfilled. The key is to start small—one habit at a time.
So tell me, what’s one intentional habit you’re going to add to your routine this week? Let’s chat in the comments!
Resources Mentioned:
- James Clear’s Book: Atomic Habits
- My Digital Planner: [Link Here]
- Free Quiz: What’s Your Ideal Morning Routine?
Let’s Connect!
If this post resonated with you, let’s keep the conversation going:
- Follow me on Instagram: @tishasburgess
- Join My Newsletter for More Tips: [Newsletter Link]
Until next time, keep living with style, success, and intention! 💫
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