Creating a Vision for Your Future:

How to Set Intentional Goals

Hi everyone!

Today I want to go back to a topic I think is extremely important for everyone… Creating a plan or a vision for your future. A lot of people I know really don’t have a plan or live intentionally at all, and then one day they realize they really don’t know how they got where they are. They’re in a job they don’t like, or maybe their relationships are struggling, or just in general the life they were “hoping for” just never happened. Does this sound familiar? You’re not along if you answered yes.

Let’s talk about it…

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Creating a Vision for Your Future: How to Set Intentional Goals

Having a clear vision for the future can be a powerful motivator. It helps us align our daily actions with our long-term aspirations, creating a path that leads toward a fulfilling and purpose-driven life. Setting intentional goals is the first step toward bringing that vision to life. Here’s how to start building a meaningful vision, breaking it down into actionable steps, and staying on track to achieve your dreams.

1. Why a Vision Matters

A personal vision serves as your guiding compass. It’s the reason behind your goals and the motivation that keeps you moving forward, even when challenges arise. By defining what you want your future to look like, you create a sense of direction and purpose.

A clear vision:

  • Provides focus: Knowing where you want to go helps you avoid distractions and stay committed.

  • Boosts motivation: Visualizing your desired future can make your goals feel more real and attainable.

  • Encourages resilience: When setbacks occur, a strong vision helps you stay grounded and focused on the bigger picture.

Think of your vision as a long-term goal that’s worth working toward, no matter what obstacles come your way.

2. Steps for Creating a Personal Vision

Creating a personal vision involves reflecting on your values, passions, and aspirations. Here are steps to guide you through the process:

1. Reflect on What Matters to You
Ask yourself, “What makes me feel fulfilled? What do I want to contribute to the world?” Identifying your core values and passions can help you define a vision that resonates deeply with who you are.

2. Picture Your Ideal Life
Imagine what your ideal life looks like. Visualize yourself five, ten, or even twenty years from now. Consider areas like your career, relationships, health, and personal growth. Where are you? Who are you with? What are you doing? This exercise can help you gain clarity on the future you desire.

3. Write It Down
Once you have a clear mental picture, write it down. A written vision statement is more powerful and tangible than a thought. You might say, “In ten years, I see myself leading a team in my career, traveling regularly, and maintaining strong relationships with my family and friends.” Be specific and vivid in your description.

4. Create a Vision Board
A vision board can be a helpful tool for visual thinkers. Gather images, quotes, or symbols that represent your goals and put them on a board. Place it somewhere visible as a daily reminder of what you’re working toward.

3. How to Translate Your Vision into Achievable Goals

With your vision in place, it’s time to break it down into manageable steps. Here’s how to set intentional goals that align with your vision:

1. Set SMART Goals
SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. By setting goals that meet these criteria, you’re more likely to stay focused and track your progress. For example, if your vision involves a healthier lifestyle, a SMART goal could be, “Exercise for 30 minutes, five days a week.”

2. Break Goals Into Smaller Steps
Large goals can feel overwhelming, so break them down into smaller, actionable steps. If your goal is to start a new career, begin with researching programs, then work on updating your resume, and finally apply to positions. Smaller steps make big goals feel achievable and keep you moving forward.

3. Prioritize and Set Milestones
Identify which goals are most important to you, and prioritize them. Then set milestones, or mini-goals, to mark your progress. These milestones serve as checkpoints and give you a sense of accomplishment along the way.

4. Review and Adjust Regularly
Revisit your vision and goals periodically to make sure they still align with your values and desires. Life changes, and so might your vision. Adjust your goals as needed to stay aligned with your evolving vision.

5. Find Accountability
Share your goals with someone who can help hold you accountable, like a friend, mentor, or coach. Regular check-ins provide encouragement, keep you on track, and help you stay motivated through challenges.

Conclusion

Creating a vision for your future is an empowering way to set intentional goals and work toward a fulfilling life. By defining what truly matters, breaking down your vision into actionable steps, and staying committed to your goals, you build a roadmap that leads to personal and professional growth. Remember, every step you take toward your vision is progress, so stay focused, stay positive, and watch your dreams unfold.

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Healthy Living - Recipes

Julia Child's Healthy Coq au Vin

Here’s a healthy and classic recipe for Julia Child's Coq au Vin. This dish is a French classic that features chicken braised slowly with red wine, mushrooms, onions, and bacon, but it can be made healthier by using less fat and more vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless)

  • 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)

  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 4 ounces bacon, chopped (optional, for flavor; can be omitted for a healthier option)

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, quartered

  • 2 carrots, sliced

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken:

    • In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, red wine, and bay leaf. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

  2. Cook the Bacon (if using):

    • In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.

  3. Sear the Chicken:

    • Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper.

    • In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sear the chicken on all sides until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.

  4. Sauté the Vegetables:

    • In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

  5. Deglaze and Simmer:

    • Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and reserved marinade. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

    • Return the chicken (and bacon, if using) to the pot. Cover and cook on low heat for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

  6. Serve:

    • Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy!

This healthier version of Coq au Vin is rich in flavor and pairs well with whole grain bread or a side of steamed vegetables.

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