25 Intentions to Lead and Live Fully

Well, my friend, here we are, standing on the edge of a new year. Whether you feel ready or not, 2025 is here, and with it comes an opportunity to reflect, reset, and refocus.

If you've been part of my community for a while, you know how much I value the practice of reflection at the end of the year. Before you fully let go of 2024, I invite you to pause with me for a moment. Let's take stock of where we've been, what we've learned and where we want to go.

What were the last 12 months like for you? Take a moment to reflect on the adventures, the mountaintop experiences, and yes, even the deep valleys.

Sometimes, we just want to rush forward, to put a tough year behind us and focus on the future. I get it - life can feel relentless, and the urge to push forward is strong. But brushing challenges aside without taking time to process them doesn't serve us well in the long run. Similarly, we don't want to miss the joy of celebrating the wins or the wisdom of lessons learned through struggle.

In this blog, I'm sharing 25 intentions that I'm bringing into the new year. These are the principles and practices I've reflected on during my journey as a leader, entrepreneur, wife, mother, and friend. My hope is that you'll find some of them resonate with you as you step into this next chapter of your life and leadership.

1. Do It Now

How often do we wait for the "perfect time" to take action? Too often, fear, procrastination, or self-doubt keep us stuck. Let this be the year you take that leap. Make the call, launch the project, or pursue the dream you've been putting off. The perfect time may never come, but action will move you forward.

2. Your Health is Your Top Priority

As leaders, we sometimes put ourselves last, prioritizing our business, team, or family over our own health. But your well-being is the foundation for everything else. I had to learn how to be intentional about putting myself first and realizing that it was not a selfish endeavor.

Prioritize exercise, nutrition, and mental health. When you feel strong and energized, you can show up fully for the people and work that matter most. 

3. You Can Heal Your Mind

Embrace the concept of neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to adapt and grow. By focusing on positive thoughts and constructive habits, you can rewire your mindset. Whether through mindfulness, therapy, or coaching, take steps to cultivate a mind that supports your growth and resilience. 

4. Deal With Your Stuff

We all carry baggage, but ignoring it only holds us back. Whether it's unresolved conflict, limiting beliefs, or past trauma, make this the year you address it. My new book, Your Way Back to Happy comes out in 2025 - it is a roadmap to turn the pain of your past into a future of freedom, purpose, and peace. I can't wait to share it with you.

Seek support when needed and do the inner work. Facing your challenges head-on will free you to step into a brighter future.

5. Live Your Best Life Now

Life is too short to wait for "someday." Take the trip. Start the business. Write the book. Pursue the things that light you up. Living with intention means making choices today that reflect the life you want to create.

Take some time to discover for yourself what it would mean to step into your best life and the best version of yourself in this new year. 

6. Embrace Connections

Success and fulfillment are built on relationships. Make time to nurture the connections that matter most - to your family, your team, your friends, and your community. A life well-lived is a life shared.

Who are your most important people? Think about this and how you will prioritize them and deepen these relationships.

7. Nobody Has It All Together

Social media may paint a picture of perfection but remember - no one has it all figured out. Extend grace to yourself and others. Authenticity, not perfection, is the real measure of leadership and character. 

Are you in the habit of "beating yourself up?" Let's enter this new year with self-compassion and a new attitude.

8. Focus on the Most Important Thing

As leaders, we're pulled in a million directions. Clarify your priorities, both professionally and personally, and stay focused on what truly matters. Let go of distractions and focus your energy where it will have the greatest impact. 

Ask yourself what needs to change in order to keep your eyes and focus on what is most important. 

9. Be Present and Mindful

The demands of leadership can leave us scattered and stressed. Cultivating mindfulness helps us stay present in the moment, whether we're leading a meeting or having dinner with family. When you're fully present, you bring your best self to every situation.

If you are finding it hard to be present, I have some specific strategies to help you. Check out my blog, Live Fully Alive: A Practical Guide to Enthusiastic Presence.

10. Put Family First

The people closest to us are often the ones we unintentionally neglect. Make it a priority to show up for your family, whether that means carving out dedicated time, listening more deeply, or simply being present.

Make a plan for how you will spend quality time with your family in new and different ways in the coming year, then schedule it!

11. Slow Down

In the rush to achieve, we sometimes forget to breathe. Create intentional pauses in your life - whether through a sabbatical, a weekend retreat, or daily moments of stillness. Slowing down gives you clarity and energy to move forward with purpose.

Ask yourself what you can do in your day to have regular breaks, even small ones. Your body and mind will thank you!

12. Learn to Play

As adults, we often lose the joy of playfulness. This year, rediscover the things that bring you pure joy - whether it's a sport, a creative hobby, or simply laughing with friends. Play feeds the soul and sparks creativity.

Is there a hobby or favorite activity that has been on the backburner for a while? Make a date with yourself or a friend and take time to play on a regular basis.

13. Listen to Your Inner Voice

Take time to tune out the noise and reconnect with your intuition. Trust that inner wisdom to guide your decisions, whether in business or life. Moments of quiet reflection help you discern your next steps with confidence.

14. Choose Faith Over Fear

Fear often holds us back from pursuing dreams. This year, choose faith - whether that's faith in yourself, your purpose, or a higher power. Trust that you are capable of handling whatever challenges come your way. 

15. Be Bold with Your Gifts

You have unique talents and abilities that the world needs. Don't shy away from using them. Whether it's your leadership skills, creativity, or compassion, lean into your gifts and use them to make a positive impact.

16. Watch Your Mental Intake

Be intentional about what you allow into your mind. Choose books, podcasts, and conversations that inspire and uplift you. Limit exposure to negativity or content that drains your energy.

17. Sunshine Warms the Soul

Identify what brings you joy and make space for it. For Graham and I - we have found that simply being out in the sunshine is a game changer for our mood. Whether it's spending time in nature, listening to music, or connecting with loved ones, prioritize the activities that energize you.

18. Time is Precious

As entrepreneurs, time is one of our most valuable resources. Use it wisely. Be intentional with your calendar and protect time for the things that align with your values and priorities.

You have heard me say often - we have 24 hours in each day, it's up to us how to use it. Let's make the most of every day.

19. Living to 100 Starts Now

Your future self will thank you for the choices you make today. Prioritize habits that promote long-term health and well-being, from daily exercise to mental health care.

20. Serve Others First

Leadership is about service. Look for ways to add value to those around you, whether that's through mentoring, volunteering, or simply being a positive influence. Leading with a servant's heart brings fulfillment and inspires others.

21. Don't Engage Negativity

Negativity is contagious. Choose to rise above it, whether it comes from others or within yourself. Focus on solutions and positive action instead of dwelling on problems.

22. Your Morning Success Ritual is Vital

A strong morning routine sets the tone for the day. Whether it's exercise, meditation, journaling, or planning, create a ritual that helps you start your day with clarity and energy.

23. Get Better Sleep

Sleep is essential for physical health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. Treat it as a priority, not an afterthought. Create a bedtime routine that supports quality rest.

24. Become a Better Person

Personal growth is a lifelong journey. Commit to continuous improvement, whether that means developing your leadership skills, strengthening relationships, or cultivating inner peace.

25. Embrace Imperfection

Let go of the need to have everything figured out or to get everything right. Embrace the beauty in imperfection and allow yourself - and others - the grace to grow.

A Year of Intentional Living

As we step into 2025, I hope these 25 intentions inspire you to live and lead with purpose. Take time to reflect on the lessons of the past year, celebrate your wins, and embrace the opportunities ahead. Here's to a year filled with growth, joy, and fulfillment!