Living Intentionally Packs a Powerful Punch

At age 13, I was flipping through Auto Trader, dreaming of perfect 1965 Mustang that would one day be mine. By age 18, I knew that I would build a successful graphic design company. I also was clear that I would use my passion for giving back to make a meaningful difference for others. All these things I knew for sure before I earned my high school diploma.nnDespite those who tried to discourage me by saying I was too young, too ambitious, or just plain nuts, I have always stayed true to my goals and dreams. I’ve applied my creative talents, unwavering motivation, and ability to work from the heart to make things happen for myself and others.nnI did buy that car by my 16th birthday. At 25, I started the ball rolling to open the design company. By age 29, I had the honor of joining the board of Washington Women in Need (www.wawomeninneed.org) for which I had the privilege to serve as president for two years. By age 36, I launched another winning company. Grateful to be a young woman blessed in so many ways, I have continued to give back to this organization through contributions of time and service.nnI am happy to report that the power of living intentionally has served me very well so far. Does the idea of intentionally crafting your life sound appealing to you? Here are some things I’ve learned.nn1. Follow your heart and listen to your gut. Period. There is no better compass. nn2. Give yourself permission to dream really, really big. nn3. Integrate your values into the way you do business, no matter what. nn4. If you're not scared, you're not thinking big enough. nn5. There is not one right way to do things. You get to invent your life and your perfect work. nn6. Don't listen to the good advice of others. nn7. Take the time to do the little things whether people know about them or not. nn8. Surround yourself with those who believe in you. Great work comes from great teams. nn9. You don't have to work with everyone or take every opportunity. I am defined just as much by the jobs and short cuts I wouldn’t take. nn10. Giving back means being in gratitude right now. And sharing what you have, even if it’s just a smile.nnMy life is about inspiring others through my actions and experiences to live their best lives -- lives of passion, contribution and abundance. I believe that my ability to grow and impact the world is in direct proportion to how big I set the intention and vision for what is possible. All this is to say that the power of intentional living can pack a powerful punch for your own life and the lives of others.nnConsider the unlimited possibilities that are yours to navigate and find a way to combine your skills, passions, and beliefs to make your life and the world around you better. When in doubt, consider this powerful proverb:nn“Man who says it can’t be done shouldn't interrupt man doing it.”