Too often we conduct our lives in such a way that life actually runs us instead of vice versa.  I have used the term “live an intentional life” in the past when discussing this, but what does it actually mean?  To me, living a life of intention means determining what you want, determining the plan to get what you want and then executing that plan.  In this way you control the parts of life that you can control, leaving fewer things to chance.   And part of the planning process is determining what you need to eliminate or sacrifice to get what or where you want.

I talked to thousands of people last year via email, speaking engagements and blog comments all expressing their wish to get ahead or experience more personal and professional success.  Yet, when I watch the vast majority of people, they simply struggle with taking control…