As we age, the concept of living with intention becomes increasingly significant. It’s about making choices that align with our deepest values and aspirations, ensuring that each day is lived to its fullest potential. For seniors and baby boomers, this intentional approach to life can bring a multitude of positive benefits, from enhanced well-being to a stronger sense of community.

What is Living with Intention?

Living with intention means actively shaping our lives around our core beliefs and values. It’s the opposite of drifting through life without direction. Being intentional is about being present in each moment and making conscious decisions that can contribute to a life of purpose and fulfillment. Intentional living involves setting goals, reflecting on our actions, and making deliberate choices that lead to a balanced and meaningful existence.

When we think about the retirement years, it is not uncommon to find that we have more time for things we want to do instead of all the things we feel we have to do.  Filling that time with things that give us purpose is an important part of living with intention.

Benefits of Intentional Living

For seniors and baby boomers, living with intention can profoundly affect holistic health and well-being. It can lead to:

Improved Mental & Emotional Health: Engaging in activities that we are passionate about and that reflect our values and can reduce stress and increase daily well-being while giving a sense of accomplishment. Learning new skills and engaging in stimulating activities can keep the mind active and resilient.

Physical Well-being: Intentional living encourages healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise and mindful eating as we consider and chose how to prioritize things in life.

Social Connection: By focusing on relationships and community involvement, seniors can foster the continued sense of belonging and purpose.  Belonging and having purpose is very important to successful aging.

Examples of Intentional Living

Are you living with intention? Do you know people who seem to have this as part of their aging experience? Think of people you know or hear about who, regardless of age, pursue their passions, embrace new experiences, and contribute positively to society. The aging adult who is living intentionally is someone who radiates purpose and passion, bringing a smile to others and maybe even inspiring people around them.

What Does Research Say?

Experts in gerontology emphasize the importance of meaning and purpose in life, especially for those who may have experienced some challenges with the inevitable changes that can come with aging. Activities that promote well-being across all the different dimensions of health are crucial for maintaining a sense of purpose as we get older.

Research also suggests that living with intention can lead to longer life spans, better sleep, more happiness, and reduced feelings of loneliness.

Putting Intention into Practice

So, how can seniors and baby boomers practice intentional living? Here are some strategies:

Reflect on Values: Take time to consider what truly matters to you. Then decide how you can align your daily life with those values. You may even want to jot down a list of what is most important to you, then arrange it in priority order.

Set Goals: Identify short-term and long-term goals that reflect your intentions and work towards them gradually.  It is ok to start slow and even to have setbacks. Facing challenges and overcoming them is a way that we all can continue to learn and grow.

Cultivate Mindfulness: Practice being present in the moment, whether through meditation, journaling, or simply savoring everyday experiences.  Slow down, focus on, and enjoy the beauty of nature, the beats in a song, every sip of a cup of team, and the time spent with loved ones.

Embrace Continuing Learning: Never stop learning. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby or studying a subject of interest, continuous learning can be incredibly fulfilling.  Do it for yourself. And do not worry about how others may look at your creation, or react to the new things you want to do.

Redefine What Aging Means

Living with intention is not a one-size-fits-all formula. It’s a personal journey that looks different for everyone. For seniors and baby boomers, it’s an opportunity to redefine what aging means and to embrace the changes that come with it as a chance for growth and enrichment.

By adopting an intentional mindset, we can help ensure that our later years are not just about aging but about thriving with purpose and passion.

Living with intention is a powerful way to navigate the complexities of aging. It allows seniors and baby boomers to lead lives filled with purpose, joy, and fulfillment. By focusing on what truly matters, we can all find different ways to live intentionally and make the most of every moment.

 

 

Sources

Psych Central, https://psychcentral.com/health/intentional-living)

Ideapod, https://ideapod.com/living-with-intention-meaning/)

BMC Geriatrics, https://bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12877-017-0650-x)

Psychology Today, https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/be-the-sun-not-the-salt/202405/living-intentionally-and-its-impact)