Am I doing enough?: Being intentional | Yes Gurl Online Magazine

I have this really annoying habit of doing too much. And no, I’m not referring to being an extrovert, being the life and soul of the party, and being considered extra by my friends, family and colleagues. What I mean is, I have a habit of overworking myself, overextending myself and giving myself too much to do for fear of not having done enough (whatever enough is).

And honestly, it’s exhausting.

I can honestly say I’ve turned up for less than 5% of the events, sessions and workshops I’ve signed up for this year (and I’ve just signed up for one today which starts in 39 minutes). And that’s not to say the events did not look promising or the speakers were not exciting. The issue was, is, the burnout. By the time the events came along, I was too exhausted to virtually attend, busy with another project or I’d simply just forgotten until I got an email asking for event feedback… Sorry, I wasn’t there lol.

So, in the words of our good sis Solange Knowles: Do nothing without intention

Now, what does that mean? I hear you fellow Queens ask.

Quite simply, if it doesn’t serve you in some way, be it academically, spiritually, mentally, physically, emotionally, professionally, financially, don’t partake. Don’t participate or sign yourself up for something, or someone, that is not aligned with what you intend for that area in your life.

When your impulses prompt you to sign up for event number 99 of the year, be reflexive and ask yourself is this something I can commit to? How will this benefit me right now or long term? Could my time/energy be better invested/used elsewhere?

And to be honest, this is very much about events as it is about relationships. Relationships also need to be intentional, which is not the same as using someone or wanting something in particular from someone. This is about ensuring that the people you surround yourself with are aligned with your spirit and purpose. Likewise, those who choose to have you in their space should also think about you in the same way.

In order to manifest your goals, dreams and desires, in order to tick off those tasks on your to-do list, in order to be your best self, you have to move through life with intention and a level of audacity mixed with self-belief.

When I became more intentional, I achieved everything on my manifestation list by April of this year (which begs the question: Am I setting my goals high enough?). And that’s not down to luck, it’s down to being intentional and investing my time in activities aligned with my purpose. And the fact that I met these goals, and missed multiple events I’d signed up for, is an indication that you don’t have to sign yourself up to everything to be successful. Sometimes less is more.

Work smarter, not harder.

And do nothing without intention.

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Written by Jamila Ayesha

Illustrated by Francesca Mariama