Living and Leading with Intention

Living and leading with intention means actively engaging in every role we occupy—be it as a parent, partner, or leader—by continuously striving for growth and excellence. This approach fosters a mindset where individuals reassess their contributions and commitments annually. Such a practice encourages accountability and self-improvement, ensuring that we do not take our roles for granted. For instance, Harley Finkelstein, President of Shopify, emphasizes that treating each role as something to “requalify for” every year can significantly elevate both personal and professional lives.

The Role of Ambition in Intentional Living

Ambition plays a crucial role in leading intentionally. It drives us to set higher standards for ourselves and motivates us to pursue excellence. Finkelstein’s insights reveal that ambition should not only be about career advancement but also about enriching our relationships and improving our impact on those around us. A study by the Harvard Business Review found that individuals who set clear, ambitious goals are 20-25% more likely to achieve them compared to those who do not. This statistic underscores the importance of intentionality in our pursuits.

Identity and the Challenge of Consistency

Our identity is often tied to the roles we fulfill. By regularly requalifying ourselves, we confront the challenge of consistency in our performance. This process requires self-reflection and honest appraisal of our strengths and weaknesses. Finkelstein suggests that this ongoing evaluation leads to greater self-awareness and ultimately a more profound impact in our roles. According to a report by Gallup, organizations that prioritize employee engagement and identity alignment see a 21% increase in productivity. This highlights how intentional leadership can transform not only individual lives but also organizational outcomes.

Setting Higher Standards for Yourself

Setting higher standards is essential for personal growth. To lead with intention, we must define what success looks like in our various roles. This could involve establishing measurable goals, seeking feedback, or engaging in continuous learning. For example, a leader might commit to attending workshops or seeking mentorship to enhance their leadership skills. Research by the American Society for Training and Development indicates that 75% of employees who engage in ongoing training report higher job satisfaction and performance. Thus, the commitment to higher standards can yield tangible benefits.

Achieving Milestones and Celebrating Growth

As we embark on the journey of living intentionally, establishing achievable milestones is critical. These milestones serve as checkpoints that help us gauge our progress and adjust our strategies as needed. Celebrating these achievements, no matter how small, reinforces positive behavior and motivates us to continue striving for excellence. For instance, recognizing a successful project completion or a positive change in personal relationships can provide the encouragement needed to pursue further growth. A survey by the Society for Human Resource Management found that organizations that celebrate employee achievements see a 14% increase in engagement levels.

Conclusion: The Transformative Power of Intention

In conclusion, living and leading with intention is a transformative practice that can enhance every facet of our lives. By committing to requalifying ourselves in our roles, we cultivate ambition, consistency, and higher standards, leading to significant personal and professional growth. The journey requires ongoing self-reflection and the establishment of measurable milestones, but the rewards—richer relationships, increased engagement, and heightened satisfaction—are well worth the effort. As we embrace this intentional approach, we not only improve ourselves but also inspire those around us to do the same.