These words came to me in my quiet time recently. Even though I have made huge strides since my days as a spiritually-starved workaholic, I was reminded to be even more intentional in the daily actions I choose.

Perhaps you are at the same crossroad in your life—busy “doing” and not “being.”

May these gentle suggestions remind you of changes you could make to live a life of more peace and harmony versus a life that leads you by checking off your “should” do list.

• When deciding whether to accept another work commitment, ask yourself how it feels. Does it feel aligned with your goals? Does it feel like the proper use of your time and energy? Or is it just another busyness task that does not really move the needle forward? How will you feel in the future if you pass on this action, opportunity, or task? Is there another way you should spend your time that would feel better?
• How will skipping this activity affect you in the future? Will you be filled with regret if you decline? Will there be another similar chance to do this is the future or is this a “once in a lifetime” opportunity? Are there dire consequences if you decline? Considering the consequences of doing or not doing this activity can help shape your perspective about its importance.
• Does this task really fit your idea of an ideal life? Does it give you peace, serenity, or happiness? Or maybe it is just another dreary task you think everyone expects you to comply with. Think about this: your job is to make yourself happy, not concede to the demands, wishes, or whims of others.
• Is this activity intentional or reactive? Is it part of your plan or is it something that just popped up and somehow it landed on your plate? Other people can be masters at shifting their responsibilities to you. Be aware if this is the case. This is not to say you cannot help someone else out. But it means you should do so because you want to, not because you feel guilty.

These are but a few examples of how we can be more mindful and intentional as we create our lives. It is your life; you get to choose what you wish to create. The best way to do that is to LIVE your life, not let it LEAD you!