“5” to Thrive in 2025 – Week 21- On Purpose

This week, I found myself reflecting on the difference between being busy and being intentional. The truth is, I’ve had more than a few days where I was moving nonstop—but getting nowhere that truly mattered. Ever feel that way?

It’s easy to fall into the trap of productivity for productivity’s sake. But when we slow down, even just a little, and reconnect with our purpose, the path forward becomes clearer. That’s what this week is about: choosing to live and act on purpose—with clarity, intention, and direction.

Whether your goal is to have a more focused workday, feel more present with your family, or simply spend less time in a mental fog, this week’s “5 to Thrive” is here to help you align your energy with what truly matters.

1. Start Your Day with 5 Minutes of Meditation for Mental Clarity

Begin your morning with just five quiet minutes of mindful breathing or stillness to ground your mind before the day begins.

Why this matters: Even short meditation sessions reduce anxiety, improve focus, and help clear mental clutter. Adding soft white noise or nature sounds can make it easier to stay present by masking distractions and anchoring your attention.

Action Step: Set a timer for 5 minutes tomorrow morning. Sit comfortably, breathe deeply, and listen to calming background sounds if silence feels overwhelming.

2. Prioritize Your Tasks by Importance

Instead of trying to do everything, focus on identifying your MITs—Most Important Tasks—the 1 or 2 things that would make the biggest impact on your day.

Why this matters: When you tackle your MITs first, you gain a sense of momentum and clarity. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by a long to-do list, but consistently completing 1–2 high-value tasks each day builds real progress and prevents burnout.

Action Step: Before starting your day, write down your top 3 tasks—but star the 1–2 that are truly your MITs. Commit to completing those first, before anything else.

3. Minimize Distractions—Turn Off Notifications and Set Boundaries

Your phone isn’t just distracting—it’s designed to be. Notifications and “likes” were created to hook your attention and fuel consumerism. Every ping is a call to engage, consume, or compare—and it pulls you away from what matters most.

Why this matters: Distractions don’t just scatter your focus—they cost you time, peace, and even money. Breaking free from the constant buzz of notifications creates space to think clearly, spend more intentionally, and protect your emotional energy.

Action Step: Silence non-essential notifications for the next 24 hours. Better yet, log out of apps that tempt you to scroll and shop impulsively. Notice the difference in your mood, focus, and spending habits.

4. Take Breaks to Refresh Your Focus

Your brain isn’t meant to operate at full speed all day. We naturally move through ultradian rhythm cycles—90 to 120-minute periods of focused energy followed by dips where we need rest and recovery.

Why this matters: When you learn to work with your body’s natural rhythm instead of against it, you boost energy, improve focus, and prevent burnout. Taking strategic breaks during your troughs—rather than powering through—can actually make you more productive.

Action Step: Pay attention to when you feel most alert and when your energy dips. Try scheduling focused work during your peak times and short breaks (10–20 minutes) after each 90-minute work block. Bonus: use the break for breathwork or a quick walk.

5. End Your Day by Reviewing What You’ve Accomplished

Take time each evening to reflect on what you did—not just what’s left to do. Using a simple checklist can help you visually track your wins and celebrate progress.

Why this matters: Checking things off a list gives your brain a hit of dopamine, the feel-good chemical associated with reward and motivation. Even small accomplishments help you feel productive, satisfied, and more in control of your time and energy.

Action Step: Before bed, review your day using a checklist—digital or handwritten. Check off what you completed and jot down 1–2 things you’re proud of. This simple practice can reduce stress and reinforce a sense of purpose.

Final Thoughts: Living On Purpose

Living “on purpose” isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about waking up each day and choosing what matters most. When you align your actions with your intentions, clarity follows. And with clarity comes peace. Let this be the week you step back into alignment—not by doing more, but by doing what matters.

I’d love to hear how this week’s focus helps you move with more intention. Leave a comment, send a message, or simply take a moment tonight to check in with yourself.

Here’s to living and thriving—on purpose.

Thrive on,

Your Life & Health Coach – Martha A. Stewart

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is not a substitute for health advice from a qualified medical provider. Always consult a healthcare professional before significantly changing your diet, exercise routine, or lifestyle.