The Intentional Man Podcast

I recently attended a men's retreat where the speaker walked us through the deep questions men wrestle with in different decades of life. From the identity-searching 20s to the responsibility-packed 30s, and into the later decades where many men realize they've lost close friendships—they all carry critical lessons for us today.One insight stood out to all of us: male loneliness often creeps in during the 30s and grows if we aren't intentional. I listened as men in their 50s and 60s reflected on how they had let friendships fade, unintentionally finding themselves without close friends. It was a wake-up call.We'll talk about why friendships don't just “happen” as we get older, how relationships require intentional effort, and the concept of “social fitness.” Just like physical fitness, if you don't exercise your relationships, they atrophy.I'm also issuing a challenge: take action today. Call or message one friend you want to reconnect with. Be the initiator. Lifelong friendships aren't built by accident—they require intentionality.

A recent mission trip to Guatemala changed my perspective on faith and service. Meeting a couple living in extreme poverty, yet fully relying on God, challenged me to rethink how much I truly depend on Him.In this episode, I share how serving others can deepen your faith, shift your focus, and help you experience God in new ways. If you're feeling stuck or disconnected, the best way forward might be to serve.

What does it truly mean to build a life of significance? Is it about career success, personal achievements, or making an impact on others?Too often, we chase validation in success—wealth, status, or recognition—without asking if it truly matters. But significance isn't about what you gain; it's about what you give. It's about living for others, making an impact, and ultimately glorifying God.This episode explores the key differences between success and significance, how to shift from a self-focused mindset to an others-focused life, and practical ways to live intentionally each day.Let's make a difference—wherever we are, with whatever we have, day by day.Listen now and start living for significance!

Are you feeling overwhelmed, constantly busy, but never truly moving forward In this episode, we dive into a powerful framework that will help you take control of your schedule, focus on what truly matters, and stop feeling like you're always behind.I'll share key insights from my own journey of battling busyness, plus practical tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to help you prioritize your time effectively. Get ready to shift your focus to working on the things that truly move the needle in your life and start making meaningful progress on what matters most.

In this episode, we dive into the power of focused, intentional growth—using the legendary work ethic of Kobe Bryant as a model. Kobe became one of the greatest basketball players of all time because he never got bored with the basics and built a deliberate plan for improvement.The challenge is simple: Do you have a clear plan for growth? Are you practicing the right skills with intention? Whether it's your career, relationships, or faith, success isn't random—it's the result of consistent, focused effort.Don't leave your growth to chance. Tune in to learn how to identify key skills, build a strategic plan, and pursue your God-sized goals with purpose.

In this episode, you will learn about one of the best practices you can put into place to be highly intentional throughout your entire day.There is a big difference between living with good intentions and actually living with intentionality.Are you coasting through each day hoping you treat people well or just hoping that you focus on what's important?Or are you truly bringing intentionality to each and every moment?You will leave this training equipped to live with a high level of intentionality on a consistent basis!

So many menwant great things for their lives, but few actuallylive in a way that makes those things a reality. The difference? Intentionality.In today's episode, we're diving into the critical shift every man must make: moving from good intentions to intentional living.I'll break down five key areas where men often get stuck in wishful thinking instead of taking real, purposeful action.✔️ Are you reacting to life or proactively leading your days?✔️ Do you talk about your goals, or are you consistently taking action?✔️ Do you tell yourself “I'll start tomorrow,” or do you commit to starting today?✔️ Are you hoping for strong relationships, or are you intentionally investing in them?✔️ When challenges arise, do you quit, or do you persevere?The truth is, the life you desire is on the other side of intentional action. It's time to stop hoping and startdoing.

Overwhelmed by Your To-Do List? Try This! Do you ever feel like your to-do list is never-ending? You start the day with big plans, only to end it feeling like you barely made a dent. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, stuck, or frustrated by your never-shrinking task list, this episode is for you. Today, I'm sharing two simple yet powerful strategies that will help you take control of your day, boost your productivity, and regain your momentum. We'll dive into the Daily Big 3—a game-changing approach to prioritizing what truly moves the needle—and the power of Three Daily Wins to help you finish each day feeling accomplished instead of defeated. If you're tired of spinning your wheels and want a proven way to make consistent progress, this episode will equip you with the tools you need to focus, execute, and win each day. Let's get intentional!

In this episode of The Intentional Man Podcast, the focus is on the challenge of overcommitment and the importance of learning to say "no." Are you saying yes to too many "good" things, leaving little room for the "great" things that truly matter? Practical strategies are shared for identifying trade-offs, using powerful questions to evaluate opportunities, and implementing the Yes-No-Yes framework for saying no with clarity and grace. Packed with insights from Michael Hyatt's Free to Focus and William Ury's The Power of a Positive No, this episode equips you to protect your time, prioritize your biggest dreams, and live with intention. It's time to say no to distractions and yes to what truly matters. Don't miss this one!

Ever felt frustrated on a trip because no one had a plan, and precious time was wasted figuring out what to do next? The same thing happens in life when you lack clarity. In this episode, we explore why clarity is the foundation of intentional living and how it can transform your daily energy, purpose, and confidence. Learn how to get clear on four key areas: who you are, how you want to treat others, where you're going, and the actions you need to take to get there. Whether you're feeling stuck, unmotivated, or like you're just going through the motions, this episode will give you practical steps to gain the clarity you need to live a focused and intentional life.

It is too easy to get stuck on cruise control in your life...going through the motions each day and not really living with intentionality. In this episode, you will hear a powerful story of a man who let his life slip by, and his word of advice for those coming behind him to not fall into the same mistakes. This is a powerful story that will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to take action now before it is too late.

Dreaming big isn't just a feel-good idea—it's an essential practice that can transform your life. But why is it so important? In this episode, I'm sharing 6 compelling reasons why dreaming big is worth your time and effort. We'll explore how big dreams honor God, energize your life, and help you set meaningful goals. I'll also dive into how a clear vision shapes your daily decisions, boosts your self-esteem, and combats apathy. If you've ever felt stuck or uninspired, this episode will challenge you to embrace a vision for your future that's so bold, it requires divine intervention to succeed. It's time to break free from the comfort zone and start living with passion, purpose, and intention.

December is the perfect time to reflect, realign, and refocus. For the past five years, one of my most impactful personal growth practices has been an end-of-year review. It's a powerful way to pause, reflect on your experiences, and extract valuable lessons to fuel your growth. In this episode, I share my process for conducting a meaningful year-end review, inspired by John Maxwell's Law of Reflection, which reminds us that we must pause to let growth catch up to us. We'll explore how reflecting on the key areas of your life—Faith, Relationships, Health, Career/Finances, and Fun/Experiences—can help you uncover wins, identify habits that are serving you (and those that aren't), and create a compelling vision for the next year. You'll learn: Why reflection is essential for growth How to celebrate your wins and measure progress against your former self How to evaluate the current state of your life in five key categories The importance of dreaming big and crafting a 1-year vision How to set realistic, focused Q1 goals aligned with your vision Whether it's December or not, don't wait to start this practice. Reflection is a growth accelerator that can change your life. Tune in to get practical steps and inspiration to begin your review and dream for the year ahead.

When was the last time you let yourself dream—truly dream? In this episode, we explore the power of dreaming big and the barriers that hold us back. Do you have a vision that excites you, or has fear, disappointment, or busyness dulled your capacity to dream? Drawing inspiration from John Maxwell's insights from Put Your Dream to the Test, we uncover the five most common reasons people stop dreaming. From the discouragement of others to a lack of confidence or imagination, we'll help you identify what's holding you back—and how to overcome it. It's time to give yourself permission to dream big, imagine new possibilities, and take the first steps toward a life of excitement, purpose, and joy.

Have you ever bought something thinking it would make you happier, only to find the excitement fade after a few weeks? That's Hedonic Adaptation at work—our tendency to adapt to the “new” and normalize it over time. In this episode, we dive into how this psychological phenomenon impacts not only our purchases but also our relationships, achievements, and personal growth. We'll explore why so many men—even those crushing their goals and succeeding by all outward appearances—feel like they're falling short. The constant chase for the next achievement or possession keeps us running on what Dr. Michael Eysenck calls *the Hedonic Treadmill*, striving harder but staying in the same place emotionally. Through stories, research, and lessons from my own life, we'll uncover how to: - Break free from the comparison trap. - Cultivate gratitude for the progress you've made. - Shift your mindset to see every experience—good or bad—as an opportunity for growth. If you've ever felt stuck, like you're chasing a moving target of happiness and success, this episode is for you.

Do you have intentional rules for how you interact with your phone? Are you proactive or reactive in the way you use it? In this episode, we dive into a critical yet often overlooked topic: your relationship with your phone. Without being proactive in your interaction with your phone, it can easily become something that is way more detrimental than helpful. There are 5 key areas where you can create simple, proactive rules for managing your phone: 1. Evening Use – How to end your day without distractions. 2. Morning Routines – Starting the day focused and present. 3. Work Habits – Setting boundaries for better productivity. 4. Social Settings – Prioritizing people over notifications. 5. Distracting Apps – Strategies to limit time-wasting black holes. With practical examples and easy-to-implement strategies, you'll learn how to reclaim your time, attention, and energy to align your phone habits with your vision and values. Take charge of your digital life today and start living intentionally.

In this episode, we dive into the crucial difference between building competence and developing character. You'll be challenged to reflect on your daily choices: are you more focused on outward success or cultivating inner integrity? Through powerful insights and practical steps, we explore why character is the foundation for true, lasting success—not only in careers but in relationships, family, and faith. Tune in to discover how investing in your character can transform your life, with actionable tips to start building a legacy of integrity today.

As the year winds down, are you finding yourself putting things off? "I'll start that diet after the holidays." "I'll work on my goals in January." Sound familiar? The truth is, waiting for the “right” time is a trap that keeps so many of us from living out our potential and taking action on the things that matter most. In this episode, we're diving deep into the dangers of procrastination and the "Law of Diminishing Intent," which warns that the longer we wait to do something, the less likely we are to ever do it. Together, we'll uncover why it's so easy to fall into this pattern, especially around this time of year, and how an intentional man lives differently—taking action regardless of circumstances. I'll share four powerful tools to help you get started today, no matter what you've been putting off. Whether it's your health, your relationships, or that dream you've always had, it's time to stop waiting. Learn practical steps to identify what's holding you back, break down your goals, and build the momentum that leads to a life without regrets. Join me as we face our fears, dismiss the excuses, and start taking action to create a life of intention and significance. Don't let procrastination be the thing that keeps you from a life well-lived.

Apathy is one of the main things attacking men today. With all of the different roles, responsibilities, distractions, and temptations, It is so easy to fall into a life of apathy without even noticing it. This is one of the ways that the enemy is attacking men today. He know if he can keep you in apathy and distraction, he can keep you ineffective.   But here's the truth: you were made to conquer, build, and lead. And one of the main ways to break free from falling into apathy is to embrace meaningful challenges that reignite your passion and purpose.  Ready to break free from coasting through life? Tune in to discover how challenge is not your enemy—it's the very key to living fully alive.

Have you ever noticed how once you decide to buy something, like a specific car or a pair of shoes, suddenly it seems like they're everywhere? It's not just a coincidence—this phenomenon is tied to something called the Reticular Activating System (RAS), a part of your brain that filters out what isn't important and brings what is into sharp focus. In this episode, I dive deep into the role of the RAS in our daily lives and how it shapes what we notice around us. Just like how I started seeing Toyota Tacomas everywhere once I wanted one, what you focus on in life will expand. So, if you're constantly dwelling on the negative, that's what you'll find more of. But if you train your mind to focus on what matters—on God, on gratitude, on joy—you'll start to see those things everywhere too. We explore why Scripture encourages us to "set our minds on things above" and how being intentional about our focus can transform our relationship with God. You'll learn practical tips, like the concept of the “Morning Gaze,” to help you fix your focus on God first thing in the morning, setting the tone for a day filled with purpose and peace. It's time to take control of what your mind focuses on. Fix your focus on what truly matters and watch how it changes your life. Tune in for this powerful conversation on how shifting your focus can help you live with intention, joy, and a deeper connection to God.

In today's episode, we're diving into one of the most powerful habits you can implement to transform your daily life: nightly planning. Apart from spending time with the Lord, this habit has had the greatest impact on my life, and it sets the foundation for a successful and intentional day. I love working with men to develop what I call Cornerstone Habits—those key routines that create a domino effect, leading to success in other areas of life. Whether it's going to the gym or planning your day, identifying and building these habits can set you up for massive momentum. For me, taking a few minutes each evening to plan the next day is a game changer. It helps you transition from a reactive, rushed day to a proactive, purposeful one. We'll walk through the difference between waking up with a plan versus waking up in chaos, and how your nightly reflection can lead to more focus, productivity, and joy throughout the day. If you've ever struggled with staying consistent in your habits, commitments, or goals, this episode is for you. Discover how nightly planning can help you win the day and live more intentionally. Tune in as we explore why your day really starts the night before and how this simple, 5-10 minute habit can have a massive return on investment for your time and energy.

How much joy are you experiencing right now? Are you truly enjoying each day, or are you waiting for a milestone or life-changing event to find happiness? In this episode, we're diving deep into the concept of joy and how to find it in the midst of life's responsibilities, stress, and overwhelm. If you feel like the pressures of work, family, and daily life have crowded out the joy you once had, you're not alone. Today, we'll explore four practical ways you can immediately begin experiencing more joy, no matter what your circumstances look like. From spending intentional time with God to bringing joy into each situation, focusing on others, and engaging in the activities that recharge you, this episode is packed with actionable steps you can take to rediscover joy in your daily life. Explore what it means to live with joy and how you can start living a more joyful life today!

In today's episode, we dive deep into one of the 6 habits of intentional living we focus on in the Intentional Man Membership—Congruency. Jonathan explores how living in harmony with your values, beliefs, and desires can transform your life. Are your thoughts, words, and actions aligned with who you want to be? Are you consistently showing up as your best self? Through powerful stories, including a personal coaching experience, and practical steps, you'll learn how to bring your life back into alignment and build greater self-confidence, passion, and purpose. If you're feeling stuck or “off” in certain areas of your life, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to make small, intentional changes that lead to big transformations. Let's work together to build lives we're proud of by living in congruence.

When was the last time you paused to truly reflect on your life? I'm not talking about a quick thought in the car or a fleeting moment before bed. I'm talking about carving out intentional time—hours, a day, or even a weekend—to step away from your daily routine and look at how your life is really going. In this episode, I challenge you to take a step back and conduct a personal quarterly review, a practice that can lead to profound growth and clarity. We'll dive into why reflection is so difficult, especially for men, and how it parallels the way coaches and athletes review game film to improve their performance. You wouldn't keep running the same play that isn't working in football, so why should your life be any different? I'll guide you through a simple framework for a quarterly life review, including: - Celebrating your wins and building confidence. - Identifying "God moments" and reflecting on spiritual growth. - Unpacking key lessons from the past quarter in relationships, health, and career. - Evaluating your habits—both the good ones to keep and the bad ones to break. - Setting intentional, informed goals for the next quarter. As Peter Drucker wisely said, “Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.” So join me as we explore how to make reflection a cornerstone of your growth, and take action to live more intentionally.

Today, we're diving deep into a crucial topic: personal growth. Ask yourself, “Do you have a plan for your personal growth?” If so far your growth strategy has been left up to chance, this episode is for you. We'll explore why having a clear, intentional plan for your personal development is essential, and how it can significantly impact every aspect of your life. From skills to relationships, your growth journey needs direction. I'll share my personal story about how a commitment to growth transformed my life and why you shouldn't leave your future to random chance. In this training, we'll discuss the gap between where you are and where you want to be, and how personal growth is the bridge that can close that gap and you will receive four simple steps to create your own growth curriculum. Growth is the only way to ensure that tomorrow is better. It's time to get highly intentional about your personal growth and develop a growth curriculum that you can consistently follow.

In this episode, you'll hear from two financial experts who share their perspectives on money. When you think about finances, what emotion comes to mind? Is it fear and scarcity? Or is it fun and abundance? The way you answer that question can profoundly affect your life and your relationship with money. Tune in to learn how these two experts view finances and how their mindsets play out in practical ways in their lives.

Today, we're revisiting three powerful interviews from past Intentional Man episodes that tackle the issue of passivity. If you've been drifting through life, just going through the motions, or not actively pursuing a larger vision, this episode offers practical guidance to help you break free from the cycle of passivity and start living with intention. By listening to real-life stories and practical advice from our three guests, you'll gain valuable insights on how to stop living reactively, pursue your dreams, and lead others with purpose.

When you hear the word "change," what emotion surfaces? For many, it triggers anxiety, fear, or a sense of overwhelm. In this episode, you will learn why change can be so challenging, especially in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty. Whether it's your job, relationships, or personal goals, change is often necessary to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to go. But how do you embrace change when it feels like a threat to your stability? This episode offers practical advice on how to shift your mindset from fearing change to seeing it as a powerful tool for growth. Learn about the three main reasons we resist change—fear of loss, process pain, and fear of failure—and hear actionable strategies to overcome these barriers.

In this episode of The Intentional Man, we tackle a pressing issue that many men face today—the decline of close friendships. Since 1990, the number of men with six or more good friends has dropped from 55% to just 27%, and the percentage of men with zero close friends has skyrocketed from 3% to 15%. What's causing this decline, and more importantly, how can we reverse it? Join me as we dive into the importance of authentic connections and explore practical strategies to be more intentional in your friendships. We'll discuss how to define what a meaningful friendship looks like for you, evaluate your current relationships, and take ownership of being the initiator. Whether you're looking to deepen existing friendships or create new ones, this episode will equip you with the tools to build strong, life-giving connections. It's time to reclaim the lost art of male friendships and do life together with purpose. Tune in and start your journey toward deeper, more intentional relationships today!

Imagine a life where you consistently live in alignment with who you want to be, invest in what truly matters, and take actions that move you closer to your goals. In this training, you will gain clarity on your priorities, learn how to manage your time effectively, and break free from crisis management mode. Feeling overwhelmed, constantly busy, or like you're always playing catch-up? You're not alone. Many men feel their schedules are out of control, juggling multiple responsibilities without making significant progress on what truly matters. I've been there too, and through my journey, I've discovered powerful strategies to organize and execute weekly tasks that align with my most important goals. Join Jonathan as we explore the four quadrants of time management, focusing on the crucial yet often neglected Quadrant 2: Non-Urgent but Important activities. These include nurturing relationships, planning, goal setting, and investing in your health—activities that truly move the needle in our lives.

If you're not proactive about doing what brings you life, these activities will likely fall to the backburner. Spend time this week following these four steps to create your recharge game plan. The world benefits when men live fully alive, with passion, purpose, and energy. Ensuring adventure in your life is a key step toward that path. This episode walks you through four practical steps you can implement immediately to add more adventure to your life and live with more passion and energy.

Boring...Ordinary...Unintentional These were the three words that a man used to describe his life. He felt like he was just going through the motions...stuck on cruise control. It is easy to fall into this kind of pattern if you are not intentional. It is easy to become reactive to the world around you and coast through each day. There are two elements that every man needs in his life to awaken purpose, passion, and excitement. This is not an exclusive list, but oftentimes these two things are the first things to go. This episode digs into one of those elements...challenge.

Have you ever found yourself wanting to make significant changes in your life, whether in health, career, or relationships, but consistently falling short? You know you need to do something, but there's no urgency driving you. It's a struggle many people face, myself included. We often wait until a crisis forces us to act. The challenge is to develop that sense of urgency before hitting rock bottom. Why do we wait for a crisis to act? How can we develop the urgency to make necessary changes before we're forced to? By raising your standards and necessity, you can develop a sense of urgency that drives you to make lasting changes in your life. This proactive approach helps you become the man God has called you to be, living a life of significance and purpose.

As kids, we were dreamers. Our imaginations ran wild. We were free to dream without worrying about what others would think, unburdened by past hurts or messages that kept us from believing we could achieve anything. But as we grow older and more life happens, our tendency to dream unfortunately diminishes. There are two significant barriers that often prevent us from dreaming about the ways God wants to use us for His kingdom: past mistakes and self-limiting beliefs. These barriers keep us from pursuing God-sized dreams that we can only accomplish through His strength.

Have you ever struggled to build a new habit or break a bad one? You're not alone. Nearly 45% of our daily actions are driven by habits, making them crucial to our lives. To build lasting habits and break bad ones, we must understand the three layers of behavior change: outcomes, processes, and identity. James Clear's book "Atomic Habits" emphasizes that identity, or how we see ourselves, is the most important layer. If our behavior doesn't align with our identity, it won't last. For instance, if you see yourself as "not a morning person," getting up early for the gym will be challenging. Similarly, someone who views themselves as "not a reader" will struggle to maintain a reading habit. To successfully change habits, we must focus on who we wish to become, not just what we want to achieve. For example, instead of just running, become a runner. Instead of just working out, become someone who loves fitness.

One of the most common issues I address with men is their relationship with food and achieving optimal health. It's a universal struggle, often topping the list of New Year's resolutions but also being the area where resolutions are most frequently abandoned. This can be incredibly frustrating and discouraging, as intentions alone aren't enough to create lasting change. I've had the privilege of working one-on-one with numerous men to help them get their health in check. Today, I want to share some of the best practices that can help you, whether you're trying to lose weight, build muscle, or simply maintain a healthier diet. Plan and Pack Your Meals: Be proactive and decide what and when you'll eat in advance. Have a Plan for Eating Out: Review menus beforehand and choose healthy options. Meal Prep: Prepare larger quantities of food to have ready-made, healthy meals. Stick to a Grocery List: Avoid impulse buys by shopping with a list and when full. Increase Protein Intake: Protein helps manage hunger and supports muscle mass. Implementing these practices can transform your eating habits and help you achieve your health goals. I believe in you, and I'm confident you can make these changes.

One of the main keys to a good day is to be proactive with your mornings. This means waking up with a clear vision and purpose instead of reacting passively to the day's demands. Here are some tips to help you build a proactive morning routine: 1. Plan the Night Before Spend a few minutes each night planning your next day. Write down your schedule, including specific times and locations for your activities. This reduces excuses and helps you wake up with a clear plan. Commit to your morning routine the night before to avoid making decisions when you're tired in the morning. 2. Prepare for Your Alarm Set your alarm across the room to force yourself out of bed. Have a plan for what you'll do immediately after turning off the alarm, such as opening the blinds, making your bed, or drinking a glass of water. These actions can help you wake up and start your day proactively. 3. Stay Off Your Phone Avoid checking your phone first thing in the morning. This can lead to distractions and unnecessary stress. Instead, set a rule to stay off your phone until a certain time, allowing you to focus on your morning routine and enter the day with a clear mind. 4. Get Your Mindset Right Spend time with the Lord through prayer, scripture reading, or another spiritual activity to set a positive tone for your day. Additionally, connect to your goals and dreams by reviewing a goal sheet, journaling, or practicing affirmations. This helps you start the day with purpose and motivation.

In every meaningful pursuit in your life, there will come a pivotal moment where you will have to decide if you are going to give up or if you are going to keep going. What you do in that moment will ultimately define the story of your life.   There are two different types of people in these situations: 1. The People Who Ask "Should I?" The people who usually turn back take a “I'm not sure about this” attitude to the situation. They ask themselves the question, “Should I?”  “Should I keep going?” “Should I keep trying?” “Should I just do something else?” “Should I quit?” They feel the uncomfortable situation. They run into some obstacles. And they want to get out of that uncomfortable situation and so they ask themselves the “Should I?” question…and what typically happens is you end up quitting right before the moment you breakthrough.   2. The People Who Ask "How Can I?" People who are fully committed, take a different approach. They ask themselves a different question. Instead of asking “Should I?” they ask themselves, “How can I?”  “How can I keep going?” “How can I find a different solution to this problem?” "How can I get better?" "How can I invest more in this relationship?" "How do I make this business succeed?"   When you start to ask yourself “How” instead of “Should” you engage your creativity and you will start to find solutions that you didn't know where there.  You will also make the critical decision to keep going when you hit that pivotal moment.  The life that you dream of is on the other side of the commitment. Are you going to be a man who comes to that pivotal moment and gives up? Or are you going to be a man who pushes through? Your greatest breakthroughs in life are usually just beyond that pivotal moment. 

Are you truly following Jesus wherever He leads? Or have you invited him to follow you? This is a question that I have been wrestling with lately. When your first reaction to a command in God's Word or to something He asks you to do is instantly fear, worry, and anxiety, then you might need to reexamine your view of God.  You don't serve a God that wants you to be miserable. You serve a God who wants you to experience life and to experience it fully. You serve a God that truly wants the best for you. You serve a God that actually knows what's best for your life and has a specific plan. His plan is always the best plan even if it means you haven to go through some uncomfortable things in the process.

Has a lack of confidence kept you from doing something that you know you wanted to do? This is an issue that has caused me to miss out on many opportunities in the past and it is one of the most common issues I see plaguing men today. I don't want to come to the end of my life and look back with regret because I was scared to do the things I always wanted to do. I don't want to look back with regret knowing I let a lack of confidence keep me from chasing my dreams and pursuing God-sized goals. And I know you don't want that either. So today I want to give you 5 ways to grow in self-confidence.   1. Develop the Habit of Remembrance As a man of God, your confidence must start with God. That is a confidence that cannot be shaken no matter what circumstances you are facing. Get in the habit of writing down the God moments in your life so you can go back and revisit them in difficult moments. When you remember who God is and what He has done in your life, you can walk in confidence.   2. Stick to the Commitments You Make to Yourself If you want to build confidence, start with some small actions that you can take and commit to sticking to them no matter what. You will build confidence as you keep your word. You will build confidence as you take consistent action. You will build confidence as you live in alignment with your vision and values.   3. Grow in Competence Confidence increases with skill and knowledge. Embrace the learning process and practice consistently to gain expertise and confidence in various areas.   4. Always Be Prepared Preparation reduces nervousness and boosts confidence. Invest time and effort in preparing for tasks and situations to feel more assured and capable.   5. Make it About Others Instead of Yourself Author/Speaker Rory Vaden says, "There is nothing to fear when your mission to serve is clear." Anxiety, nervousness, and fear usually come when we make things about ourselves. When you take your focus off yourself and instead seek to put the focus on helping and serving others, you can walk in greater confidence.

Being an Intentional Man means being proactive rather than just reacting to what life throws at you. It's easy to slip into a reactive mode because of all the responsibilities and roles you juggle daily. You might be on top of things at work but not putting enough effort into your relationships or finances. One key area often overlooked is our environment, including the people we spend time with, the media we consume, and the places we go. It's important to design your environment intentionally to support your growth and well-being. Here are five areas to focus on: 1. People: Think about the influence of those you hang out with. Are they uplifting and supportive? Make an effort to spend more time with people who positively impact your life. 2. Home: Set up your living space to encourage healthy habits and align with your goals. For example, keep healthy snacks visible instead of cookies. 3. Work Environment: Keep your workspace tidy and free of distractions to boost your productivity. 4. Inputs: Be mindful of the media and content you consume. Choose things that inspire and uplift you. 5. Activities: Identify activities that recharge and bring you joy. Make time for these instead of defaulting to passive activities like watching TV. Your environment can either support or hinder your growth. By designing it to align with your values and goals, you create a supportive space that helps you live more intentionally. Start with one area, improve it, and then move on to the others. Remember, it's about progress, not perfection.

Be a man that strives after the dreams and mission God has put on your heart, but enjoy the process along the way and live with gratitude and joy each day. Here are 4 ways to help you enjoy the present while still pursuing big dreams: 1. Develop a Lifestyle of Reflection When we don't take time to stop, reflect on our lives, ask ourselves good questions, acknowledge the wins, identity things we are grateful for, we are not allowing ourselves to grow to the full. 2. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others Comparison can be the thief of joy. Oftentimes, comparing yourself to people who are ahead (or seem to be) of you causes us to lose sight of our mission. If you are going to compare, compare your current self to your former self. Acknowledge the progress you are making and celebrate the wins in the process. 3. Change Your Perspective on Failure and Discomfort Here is the shift in mindset that you must make…experiencing some failures and making mistakes is not a sign of weakness, it is actually a sign that you are growing, progressing, and pursuing something that is worth pursuing. Failure and discomfort are positives because it means that you are learning and growing. They are positives because it means you are on the right path. 4. Celebrate Your Wins with Others Have some guys (or one other guy) that you meet with consistently to celebrate your wins. This forces you to think about the things that are going well, and it teaches you to learn how to celebrate the wins of others instead of comparing yourself to others.

You live in a world that is becoming more and more distracted. The frustration of meticulously planning one's day, only to be derailed by constant interruptions and digital distractions, is a common experience. Overcoming distractions is crucial for fulfilling one's purpose and aligning with God-given goals. The alarming statistics of time spent on phones, television, and emails highlight the need for proactive measures to combat distractions effectively. Three main causes of distractions are identified: internal triggers, external triggers, and a lack of planning. Internal triggers, such as discomfort and stress, lead individuals to seek relief through distractions like social media or TV. Strategies like the "10-minute rule" are advocated to overcome these triggers. External triggers, such as notifications and interruptions, also contribute significantly to distraction. Proactive measures like organizing smartphone apps and implementing focused work sprints are suggested to mitigate these triggers effectively. Lastly, the importance of planning to reduce distractions is emphasized. Creating structured schedules and prioritizing tasks can minimize idle time that often leads to distractions. Developing a personalized distraction management plan is encouraged, emphasizing the long-term benefits of mastering focus and living intentionally. Proactive action is urged to reclaim valuable time for meaningful pursuits and take control of distractions for a more fulfilling life.

Many men struggle with lack of confidence, low self-esteem, and feelings of inadequacy throughout their lives. These issues don't magically improve unless intentionally addressed. The story of Moses in Exodus 3 and 4 highlights five traps of low confidence and self-esteem: the 'who am I' trap the 'I don't have all the answers' trap the 'fraud' trap the 'I'm not gifted enough' trap the 'somebody else will do it' trap These traps are lies from the enemy that keep men from fulfilling their God-given potential. Our validation comes from God, and we must focus on His promises instead of our own inadequacies. Stepping out in faith and pursuing God's purpose for our lives can inspire others and lead to a life of significance.

In this episode, Jonathan discusses the importance of taking ownership and being intentional in different areas of life. He shares his personal experience of feeling unfulfilled in his career and how he realized the need to be proactive in designing his future. Jonathan emphasizes the concept of the first creation, where one must have a vision and plan before taking action. He encourages listeners to reflect on the areas where they may be passive and offers practical steps to start being more intentional. You will leave this episode inspired to take charge of your life and live with purpose.

Do you have a plan and a strategy for making the future better? Or is it merely wishful thinking? Most people believe that their future is going to be better than their current situation. Their finances will improve. Their relationships will improve. Their career will advance. But most people don't actually have a strategy for how that is going to happen. I believe that the key to making your future better is growth. You must intentionally grow in order to make tomorrow better than today. There is a big difference between accidental growth and intentional growth. One is passive while the other is proactive. In this episode, you will learn the importance of intentional personal growth and the exact steps you need to take to get started.

In this episode of the Intentional Man Podcast, Jonathan challenges listeners to make each day their masterpiece. He emphasizes the importance of living in the present and understanding that the way we live today impacts our tomorrow. He shares the story of legendary coach John Wooden, who believed in making each day a masterpiece and achieved great success with his team. Jonathan provides three keys to making each day count: treating each day as a gift from God, defining what success looks like in a day, and establishing daily actions to win the day.

In this episode, Jonathan interviews Ryan James Miller, author of the book 'Wounds: How Hurt, Heartache, and Tragedy Become the Keys to Unlocking Greatness.' Ryan shares the inspiration behind his book, which was sparked by a life-changing event - the mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017. He discusses the importance of facing wounds and dealing with past hurts, especially for men who are often conditioned to hide their emotions. Ryan emphasizes the need to find strength and identity in Christ and shares his personal journey of healing and transformation. He also introduces the Wound Analysis Framework, a process for understanding and leveraging past wounds to unlock greatness. In this conversation, Ryan James Miller discusses the importance of stepping up and being honest about our weaknesses and struggles. He emphasizes the need for honest feedback from others and the value of seeking outside help, such as hiring a coach. Ryan also highlights the significance of surrendering and being weak, recognizing that true strength is found in humility. He explores the idea that God's power is made perfect in our weakness. Ultimately, Ryan believes that by doing the hard work of dealing with our wounds, we can awaken to the greatness that God has for us.

In this episode, Jonathan interviews Dr. Jake Huebner, a chiropractor and fitness enthusiast. They discuss Jake's background in health and fitness, the importance of proper lifting technique, and how to prevent injuries. They also talk about the benefits of stretching and mobility exercises, especially for those with desk jobs. Jake emphasizes the need for discipline and consistency in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and shares tips for incorporating mobility routines into daily life. Finally, they discuss when it's appropriate to seek chiropractic care. Dr. Jake Huebner emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying causes of pain and discomfort rather than relying solely on adjustments. He offers personalized programs to help patients achieve long-term results and become self-sufficient in managing their health. Dr. Huebner encourages individuals to seek treatment early, even if they have minimal pain, to prevent potential issues from worsening. Being intentional with health involves taking care of one's body not only for personal well-being but also as a form of leadership and influence on loved ones. Supporting Dr. Huebner includes following him on social media and spreading the word about his unique approach to chiropractic care.

In this episode, Jonathan interviews Justin Boling, an EOS implementer, about the importance of creating a vision for personal and professional growth. They discuss the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and how it helps businesses align their leadership teams and achieve their goals. Justin shares his personal experience of using EOS principles to improve his own life and the impact it has had on his family. They emphasize the importance of setting a 10-year vision, breaking it down into shorter-term goals, and taking action to make progress towards that vision. They also discuss the role of faith and prayer in the goal-setting process. In this conversation, Justin Boling shares his insights on finding a new path, organizing your time, and honoring God through discipline.

Tyler Johnston shares his journey of finding acceptance and identity in the Lord after struggling with the pressure to perform and seeking validation in other places. He emphasizes the importance of rest and Sabbath in maintaining a healthy balance between work and acceptance. Tyler encourages listeners to be honest with themselves and seek help from mentors or friends who can provide guidance and accountability. By focusing on God's love and acceptance, individuals can experience freedom, peace, and fulfillment in their lives. Tyler shares his journey of trusting in God's provision and how it has shaped his approach to business. He emphasizes the importance of relying on God's economy and not being driven by fear or desperation. Tyler also highlights the power of working with confidence and resting in a firm identity in Christ.