Living intentionally for me has involved catching myself before I downward spiral and stepping back and looking at a situation before I respond. Sometimes it is easier to catch ourselves when we have a touchstone. For me that has been The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.
I read the book years ago. I know them by heart and I do try and live them. Some days/times easier than other. They are:
- Be impeccable with your word. For me that sometimes means keeping my mouth shut. Seriously, if we have nothing to add to the conversation – I mean positive or constructive let it go.
- Don’t make assumptions. Everyone has baggage we know nothing about. They could be having a bad day and we are just an easy target.
- Don’t take anything personally. For me this goes with above – if we are making assumptions we are often taking things personally. Unless I have really screwed up it likely isn’t all about me!
- Always do your best. This applies to any given day. So if we are ill doing your best will look different than when we are 100% and that is okay. Always do your best with what we have. Don’t set unreasonable standards.
The book will give you more detail. They have been my touchstone for years.
Setting Our Intentions 