Most people have experienced the phenomenon of living on autopilot. Instead of making choices about what you do and where your life will lead, getting stuck on autopilot mode means you’re simply going along with life without making choices or working toward goals.
People can slip into autopilot mode for a lot of reasons. Depression, anxiety, boredom, trauma, and other emotional responses can leave people “stuck” in their routines. So, how can people get out of autopilot mode and into a more fulfilling routine? The answer is intentional living.
Living intentionally is the opposite of getting stuck on autopilot mode. Instead of simply waiting for life to happen, intentional living means making choices, setting goals, and actively deciding to care for your body and mind. As George Mavrookas, CEO and founder of Agape Behavioral Healthcare, explains, living intentionally is the key to personal and professional success.
This article will explore what it means to live intentionally. You’ll learn how to recognize signs that you are not living an intentional lifestyle. You’ll discover how intentional living can benefit every aspect of your well-being and how to be more intentional in your daily life.
If you are ready to live more intentionally or get help to improve your mental health, you are not alone. Reach out to the specialists at Agape Behavioral Health to learn about our mental health treatment and support programs.
What is Intentionality?
Intentionality means making decisions based on thought and deliberation. Instead of acting impulsively or getting stuck in a rut, living intentionally means making choices. It may also mean working toward short and long-term goals to improve your quality of life and overall well-being.
Another aspect of living intentionally is creating a lifestyle that aligns with your values. Living a life that aligns with your morals and values can feel more meaningful. It can also connect you to others with similar mindsets who will support your lifelong wellness journey.
How Living Intentionally Can Support Your Total Well-Being
Sometimes, “going with the flow” can be part of an easygoing personality. But in other cases, it may signify someone is struggling with their mental health. Getting stuck on autopilot mode can come from depression, trauma, or other conditions that impact your overall health and well-being.
Living in autopilot mode can be a sign that your mental wellness needs attention. Living intentionally can help you regain control over your health, well-being, and future.
Making decisions and working toward goals can have positive outcomes in many areas of your life. You may choose to take care of your physical health by eating well, exercising, and prioritizing sleep. You may decide to improve your relationships by spending time with people you love or learning better communication skills. You may commit to working toward more fulfilling employment or find a job that better meets your needs.
By living intentionally, you may develop healthier relationships, more opportunities, and better health. It isn’t always easy, but the results can be significant.
How to Live a More Intentional Lifestyle
Here are some of the ways you can live with more intentionality.
Recognize autopilot mode
The first step to living more intentionally is recognizing when you’re stuck on autopilot. Some of the signs that you are living on autopilot include:
- Losing interest in the activities that used to feel important to your identity
- Giving up on personal or professional goals
- Delaying big decisions or procrastinating on projects
- Feeling aimless, as though you are just “getting through” life
Autopilot mode can be a response to a mental health condition, trauma, or overwhelming responsibilities. You may feel “frozen,” stuck, or exhausted as you go through your day.
Reframe the way you think about your life
Many people get stuck in the idea that life is something that happens to them. Instead, reframe how you think about your life. Remember that your life is made up of choices. Even when things out of our control happen, we can still choose how we respond to them.
Consider your environment
Your environment can play a role in your motivation and choices. Consider what elements of your community support your overall wellness and what elements keep you from making the best choices for your well-being.
Think about your purpose
Research shows that people who feel a deep sense of purpose are usually happier and healthier than those who don’t. Take time to consider what you believe is your life’s purpose. What are you passionate about? What can you contribute to a cause greater than yourself?
Set goals that align with your values
Once you have a sense of your purpose, set goals that align with your values. Working with a therapist, life coach, or mentor may help you create realistic goals that align with your beliefs.
Focus on your own progress
Don’t compare yourself or your life to anyone else’s. Your journey, talents, struggles, and strength are unique. Focus on your own journey.
Stay focused
Find support to help you stay focused on living with intention. While it can be easy to get distracted by the distractions of the world, staying focused on your goals is essential to living with intentionality.
Living intentionally can help you reach personal and professional goals. It isn’t always easy, and most people need support to stay on track.
Working with a therapist or seeking mental health treatment may be part of your journey toward an intentional lifestyle. Reach out to the specialists at Agape Behavioral Healthcare to learn about our holistic mental health treatment and support programs.
