Each start of the year, we take our time to seek God for a word or a verse that will help us navigate life as we start a fresh for the new year. I personally call them “My hashtag for the year”.
This year, our family’s hashtag is #IntentionalAndMindful2024.
As a matter of fact, even before 2024 started, God already impressed these words in our hearts. After what we went through with my cancer journey last year, there are a lot of things we realized. Our eyes were opened to what is really important and that we can choose to use our energy and resources wisely by being mindful and intentional.
A Word or A List?
For us, choosing to seek God’s guidance feels more realistic and a centered approach for the year than creating a long list of New Year’s Resolutions. By taking moments to reflect and discover a word or verse, we can better concentrate on our goals. This practice becomes a source of strength for us during challenging times. We can be confident that God will guide us through any difficulties we may face.
Living in this fallen world, we work tirelessly, missing chances to embrace what truly makes our hearts come alive. It’s a sad reality, but amidst the hustle, we can take a moment to stop, smell the flowers, and discover an alternative to the life existing only in our heads.
Life’s beauty lies in its simplicity, yet we often weave complexities. In a world influenced by trends, it’s easy to lose ourselves. We unconsciously become victims of consumerism and capitalism, straying from our true values.
As we seek and align with God about being intentional and mindful, we got this verse from Ecclesiastes 4-6. It’s a timely reminder about using our hands for things that truly matter. I copied two versions here, the ERV version is just straight to the point, for those who might need to hear it too.
“Better to have one handful with quietness than two handfuls with hard work and chasing the wind.”
Ecclesiastes 4:6 NLT
”But I say it is better to be satisfied with the few things you have than to always be struggling to get more.“
Ecclesiastes 4:6 ERV
As we make decisions for this year, our hashtag #IntentionalAndMindful2024 and banner verse in Ecclesiastes 4:6 will be our guiding principle. From what we eat to what we bring into our home, spending time with loved ones, and caring for ourselves. I hope our decisions reflect an intentional and mindful life.
Here are some of the things we did to kickstart our Intentional and Mindful 2024 slow living journey.
1. Research
We read books like “An Almost Zero-Waste Life” by Megean Weldon.
We watched documentaries like “The Minimalist: Less is Now” and “Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food” on Netflix as well as “The True Cost” on Youtube, a documentary film exploring the impact of fashion on people and the planet.
Additionally, we listened to podcasts about minimalism, zero waste lifestyle and the likes.
2. Declutter
Starting with our closets, we began decluttering. We kept what matters, creating a wardrobe we truly value.
We made an inventory of what we currently own and a future wishlist. Now, our approach goes beyond desire; it’s a mindful exploration into brand sustainability.
Decluttering our space fosters a sense of calm and allows us to appreciate the essentials. We simplify our surroundings by keeping only what adds value to our life.
“Let’s not confuse minimalism with well organized clutter.”
3. Let others know
We started with our families, during the holiday season we intentionally asked them of their gift wishlist and at the same time we inform them of ours too. This both saves us time of thinking about our gifts. At the end of day we are sure the person giving and receiving the gifts are happy.
I hope we can normalize giving gifts this way – where you truly give and receive a gift with a cheerful heart. Meaningful gifts doesn’t have to be material things or expensive, it can just be your presence, your time or a shared experience.
Starting this intentional and mindful living journey means there’s lots to discover and relearn.Though we still have a long way to go, we are eager to embrace simple yet thoughtful living. Remember, they say “less is more”, and taking it slow helps us move faster in the right direction.
Learning and embracing being intentional and mindful this year sets the tone for the years to come. We know this change in lifestyle will have a positive impact in our lives.
To an intentional and mindful 2024!
