The Importance of Action: Turning Intentions into Reality

Taking initiative often seems to be the lifeblood that brings growth into our lives. Too many of us can easily complain about our situation, as many of us do; everyone talks about dissatisfaction with their lives. That is a natural human thing to do, but the struggle is to convert that complaining mode into one in which we initiate action. First comes the identification of what needs to change, but it’s in deliberate taking of action that makes a difference, a difference.

It’s a journey; mistakes are included. Here, setbacks offer an opportunity to choose: stay down and dwell upon self-pity as life moves on, or rise, regroup, and redirect. Now it is your turn to become an active participant in your life! Commit to engaging yourself in new activities that will move you closer to the life you design. Approach every activity with excitement, energy, and commitment.

Start building towards your goal by checking if what you do daily will align with your aspirations. When faced, it’s vital to recognize that goals can be divided into manageable, bite-sized tasks. To make progress, pose “What single action can I take today to move towards my goals?” Take that action, no matter how unimportant it might seem, as it can be an important action towards accomplishing your objectives.

Overcome procrastination; do the things you have been putting off. A large part of them needs planning, but the greater part of them can be started right now if one is sufficiently determined. Perhaps you’d like to think of this as the time to begin whittling down that backlog of undone tasks that has been weighing on your mind. Break big projects into their smaller, actionable components, and execute those quick activities immediately; the key is simply to start.

Nurture your lifestyle and enjoy your daily life. Do not postpone happiness to some future date when all will be ‘just right.’ Your life is worth so much more than that. Take time to think about what puts a smile on your face, whether it is an activity or the people you surround yourself with. Make sure you take the time to do those things and tell those people how important they are to you.

Move around every day. You don’t necessarily require yourself to join a gym to remain active. Small steps can make a big distinction, such as going up the stairs instead of the elevator, squeezing in a brief walk during your lunch break, or perhaps just listening to music with your kids while making breakfast.

Pursue your true desires, rather than following a path determined by obligation or expectation. When you feel forced into doing something, it can lead to sensations of aggravation and bitterness, eventually draining the delight from the experience. Communicate your boundaries with others clearly, and assertively say what you would and wouldn’t like to do. Most people will understand and respect your decisions.

Challenge yourself daily to like new things. Again, try new experiences: listen to a new radio station, join a club, take a class, or read a different type of book. While simplifying life with routines can save time and energy, too much predictability limits creativity. Adding small new elements to your daily life keeps your mind engaged.

Take some time every week to create something: try doodling, gardening, painting, crafting, cooking new recipes, or writing. These acts of creativity not only keep the mind active but are gratifying and give a sense of satisfaction for one’s self.

Do good for others without anticipating anything in return. Surprisingly, such an action may lift others up and make your life fuller than you had ever wished.

As Marcia Wieder says,