Ever had one of those nights where you’re lying in bed, deep in thought, staring at the ceiling, and asking yourself, “Is this all there is to life?” I have been there. That’s why John C. Maxwell’s book, Intentional Living: Choosing a Life That Matters, hit me right in the heart. This book was recommended by my mentor, Dr. Samuel Ekundayo. I’m extremely grateful to have read it and have also recommended it to my community. I’ll be sharing a short review of the book here today.
This book has shifted how I view my daily choices and their impact on the people around me and the world. As someone who’s always looking for ways to make a meaningful impact, this book resonated deeply with me, and I can’t wait to share its wisdom with you.
Introduction
Here’s the thing about intentional living as described by the author, it’s not some mystical concept reserved for spiritual gurus or life coaches. It’s simply about picking up the pen and writing our own story instead of letting life write it for us. The beautiful part is that, there’s no pressure to be perfect (thank goodness!), just a commitment to making daily progress and living a purposeful life.
Chapter 1: Your Life Can Be a Great Story
In the opening chapter, the author encourages us to see ourselves as the authors of our own stories. What struck me most was his emphasis on taking control of our narrative. No more blaming circumstances or others, it’s time to own our story. Don’t let your limitations define you, instead let your intentions shape you. Look around you, look within. If you don’t like what you see, if you don’t like how your story is turning, start TODAY and write a new chapter. Don’t wait for the perfect time; it might never come. If you want your story to be worth reading, start NOW! Start doing the things you want to be remembered for.
Doug Horton’s words echo this sentiment beautifully: “Be your own hero. It’s cheaper than a movie ticket.”
Chapter 2: Why Good Intentions Aren’t Enough
Having a good heart and good intentions is great. But here’s the hard truth – good intentions alone won’t create change. Beyond just desiring a better life for people around do, start doing the little things you could to help. Only actions change life. Maxwell drives this point home with Zig Ziglar’s principle: “If you will first help others get what they want, they will help you get what you want.”
This chapter challenges us to move beyond wishful thinking to real action. It’s not enough to want to make a difference, we have to take consistent, intentional steps toward significance. Don’t just wish for impact; act on it daily.
Chapter 3: Start Small but Believe Big
This chapter is a game-changer if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your dreams. Maxwell reminds us of Parker Palmer’s liberating insight: “We do not have to save the world, we must merely make a difference in the place where we live.” The idea is simple, start where you are with what you have. The power lies in consistent, small actions fueled by big beliefs. Think of it like this: you don’t have to feed an entire city, but you can cook a meal for one person. Visit one sick person in the hospital. Pay someone’s transport fare. Give an extra tip to an employee. Say ‘thank you’ with intention. The list goes on. Small, meaningful acts create ripple effects that lead to real change.
Maxwell’s challenge? “Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can.”
Chapter 4: Search Until You Find Your Why
In this chapter, the importance of discovering your purpose – your “why” was highlighted. The author explains that knowing your why gives meaning to your life and guides your decisions. Think of your why as the reason God created you. Without it, life can feel empty and directionless.
Maxwell reminds us:
- Every person was created to make a difference – including you!
- Every person has unique talents to make the world better – including you!
- Every person has opportunities to impact others – including you!
- Every person has a God-given purpose – including you!
- Every person must take time to reflect and discover their purpose – including you!
As one of my mentors puts it, “Purpose is the cure to suicide.” When you know your why, you’ll wake up every day with a reason to live and make an impact.
Chapter 5: Put Other People First
In this chapter, the author shifts the focus to serving others. True greatness comes when we care about people, value their stories, and help them win in life.
We must remember that while we are important, others are too. The key to significance is loving and serving people well. Instead of competing, we are encouraged to focus on contributing. Use your gifts to lift others up, not tear them down. When we make others better, we become better ourselves.
Chapter 6: Add Value to Others from Your Sweet Spot
Building on serving others, the author encourages readers to add value by operating from their strengths and passions. He called this your “sweet spot.” This is where your talents, passions, and opportunities meet.
Here’s how you can add value:
- Value yourself – You can’t give what you don’t have.
- Value others intentionally – Show genuine care.
- Be grateful – Acknowledge what others have done for you.
- Respect what others value – Find common ground.
- Keep growing – Stay valuable by continually improving yourself.
When you work from your sweet spot, you make the greatest impact and feel the most fulfilled.
Chapter 7: Connect with Like-Minded People
John Maxwell emphasizes the power of community. Surround yourself with people who share your passion and vision. Life is not meant to be lived alone. This is another reason why you need to find your why.
Finding your why helps you find your way, and the people to walk with. Your tribe will support you, challenge you, and amplify your impact. Together, you can achieve more than you ever could alone.
Chapter 8: Partner with Like-Valued People
This chapter takes relationships to the next level – partnerships. The author highlights the importance of partnering with people who share your values and drive.
He uses a striking analogy:
- Two horses can pull 9,000 pounds, but four horses can pull 30,000 pounds.
The lesson? Partnerships create synergy and multiply impact. However, Maxwell also warns about mismatched partnerships. To attract high-value people, you need to be high-value yourself. Who you are determines who you attract.
Chapter 9: Live with a Sense of Anticipation
We are encouraged to stay alert and expect opportunities to make a difference. Every day brings new chances to bless others, don’t miss them!
Start each day prepared to help someone. Be intentional about noticing and acting on moments to serve and add value. Don’t let busyness or distractions stop you from making an impact wherever you go.
Chapter 10: Be Urgent about Seizing Significance Opportunities
In the final chapter, Maxwell stresses the importance of urgency. Opportunities to make a difference won’t last forever, so act quickly and intentionally.
Be the first to lend a helping hand. Keep showing up for people, even when it’s hard or others don’t appreciate it. Let your actions inspire those around you, including children, to build a habit of serving others.
Don’t wait for the perfect moment to make a difference. Start now, and let your life be a light that leads others to do the same.
In summary
Reading “Intentional Living” wasn’t just about highlighting passages and nodding along. It was about realizing that making a difference isn’t some grand, out-of-reach concept. It starts with today’s choices, today’s actions, and today’s willingness to step up.
I love John Wesley’s quote: “Do all the good you can, by all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” Sounds overwhelming? Maybe. However, I have learned that we can choose to make one intentional choice at a time.
What about you?
Are you ready to start living more intentionally?
Which part of this book resonates most with where you are right now?
Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear your thoughts.
P.S. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, remember: every great story starts with a single page. Your story of intentional living can start today.
I encourage you to make your story a great read!
