Intentional Living: Choosing a Life That Matters by John C. Maxwell tells the story of John’s rise to prominence as a megachurch pastor and leadership expert.
When I first heard him speak, I was overwhelmed by John’s confidence and a bit put off by his attitude, which bordered on cockiness. But this book is a gem for anyone struggling with self-worth or lacking fulfillment. And his story reveals his weaknesses, failures, and strengths, makes him relatable, and lets us apply some lessons from his life to our own.
Intentional Living is a book that aims to help readers find purpose and fulfillment by encouraging them to live with intention. This book can be particularly beneficial for someone who feels unfulfilled in their work since it provides valuable insights and practical advice on making meaningful changes and leading a more fulfilling life.
“I’ve seen many successful people whom others didn’t believe in. But I’ve never met a successful person who didn’t believe in him- or herself.”
Three key insights and takeaways from the book are:
Significance comes from adding value to others: Maxwell emphasizes that true fulfillment and happiness come from adding value to the lives of others rather than focusing on personal success or material wealth. By shifting the focus from self-centered goals to making a positive impact on others, we can find a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction in our work and personal lives.
Living with intentionality: He encourages readers to live each day with intention by making conscious choices and taking deliberate actions that align with their values and goals. Such intentionality requires us to become more self-aware and reflective and to prioritize our time and energy on what truly matters. By doing so, they can create a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
The power of small, consistent actions: The book highlights the importance of taking small, consistent steps towards one’s goals rather than waiting for the perfect moment or a breakthrough. This incremental approach can lead to significant gradual progress and help us overcome feelings of being stuck or unfulfilled in their work.
In summary, Intentional Living offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone feeling unfulfilled in their work. By emphasizing the importance of adding value to others, living with intentionality, and taking small, consistent actions, Maxwell’s book provides a roadmap for creating a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
“Every Monday is like a mini New Year, giving you the chance to start fresh with a clean slate. That‘s why the weekly emails are a blessing. You can choose to complain and hate Mondays, or you can be among the select few who embrace a new, fresh start. Today with Purpose provides a pep talk, wise principles, and a vision that can help you see that life and work are meaningful. I encourage everyone to read it and start their week off right with a vision and principles that don‘t conform to the world, but instead seek to serve others and better yourself!”
A Writer and Coach Finds Simple, Actionable Advice
“I truly enjoy receiving Harvey‘s email messages. They are easy-to-read, but packed with helpful and encouraging information. I created a separate email folder to store them just so I can refer back to them more easily. His topics are very timely and seem to address issues I am currently experiencing, like self-doubt and problems completing what I start, or they address topics that can help me personally and professionally, such as ways to provide more impact at work. I like to keep Harvey‘s messages because they provide simple, actionable steps to implement, but can lead to a significant return. Referring to the messages weeks later provides good accountability to ensure I‘m following the advice.”
“Spending a few minutes reading a message from Harvey has become something that truly has been meaningful, thoughtful, and encouraging.”
— A Local Business and Ministry Leader.
A Coach and Author Sees a Message of Hope
“The value I find from Harvey‘s messages is an acknowledgment that many people feel dissatisfied, even with seemingly successful lives. His writing is such a reflection of him. Not a ‘get happy quick’ message but a message of empathy, compassion, and hope. He walks in his readers‘ shoes towards more purpose and impact. It is not quick and easy. But very possible.”
— Melissa Bloom, Coach and Author of The Path to Joy.
