Every moment of every day, you make a choice. Do this, or do that. Notice this, or notice that. Say this, or say that. Do you make these choices by default, out of habit, or do you act deliberately and with intention?

If you are going to embark on doing something, do it with intention and authenticity, and then embrace your process of what you’ve chosen to do. Self-doubt and regret do not play a part in your daily activities when you act with intention this way. In fact, this is an aspect of mindfulness – a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. (Read this post on mindfulness and habits.)

You only have 24 hours in each day. You can manage how you spend the currency of time by being intentional with your actions and thoughts. When presented with a “this or that” choice, consider your options in that moment. How do you feel? What do you think about your choice? How does your decision affect you and others? Is your choice deliberate and thoughtful?

Once you have made a mindful decision, take inspired action toward that goal. Right here and now, be content with your choice and know that you were fully present as you made your decision. Love yourself and love the choice, love the action and love the feeling.

Ensuring you are living out of intent rather than out of habit allows you to be more authentic.  Embrace your authenticity and be free in it.