As we embark on a brand-new year, it’s the perfect time to dream big, embrace life’s simple pleasures, and set intentions that truly align with our values. In this week’s episode of Chasing Brighter, we explored the art of living fully—finding the sweet spot between chasing bold adventures and savoring small, everyday joys.
Setting Intentions That Align with Your Values
Have you ever paused to think about what truly matters to you? Setting intentions begins with identifying your core values. Whether it’s connection, creativity, adventure, or calm, understanding what brings you fulfillment is the foundation for creating a life well-lived. Ask yourself:
- What do I want to feel more of in my life?
- What experiences energize and excite me?
- What small joys can I incorporate into my daily routine?
Living intentionally is about aligning your actions with your values. For example, if connection is one of your values, you could plan meaningful trips with loved ones or schedule weekly coffee dates with friends.
For more on value-driven living, check out our earlier episode, Discovering Your Why: Living with Purpose and Intention.
Big Adventures: Dreaming and Planning
Your bucket list is a reflection of your dreams and passions. Take time to update it! Whether it’s visiting a new country, trying a unique experience (like dining in the dark!), or something as simple as exploring a nearby city, dream big and plan your adventures.
One of the most exciting parts of our discussion was hearing Jessica share her 2024 bucket list accomplishment—visiting the Mall of America! It’s proof that even dreams that seem small can bring a sense of joy and accomplishment.
Pro tip: Break down your big dreams into actionable steps. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, research flights, plan your itinerary, and create a savings plan. Don’t forget to leave space for spontaneity—sometimes the best adventures are unplanned.
Savoring Simple Joys
While big adventures inspire us, life is made up of small, magical moments. Embrace simple pleasures like:
- Savoring your morning coffee mindfully
- Watching a stunning sunset
- Creating rituals like Friday pizza nights or weekly gratitude journaling
Jessica shared her joy of trying Vosges Chocolate —a mindful brand of chocolate treats. It’s a great reminder that being present in the moment can bring so much happiness.
Need ideas for bringing more mindfulness into your life? Listen to our episode, Mindfulness for Moms: Finding Peace in the Chaos.
Fueling Your Year with Balance
Living fully is about balancing bold dreams and small joys. As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “Happiness is not the goal. It is the byproduct of a well-lived life.” Let’s make 2025 the year we align our values, set inspiring intentions, and fill our lives with adventure and joy.