Core Compass: Navigating Life with Values and Intentions

John

All right, folks. Today we're going to, gonna dive into something that's at the very core of who we are, literally—core values. You see, as I moved from country to country, one thing I learned was that despite all the change, what stayed constant were my values. They acted like a compass, navigating through the noise and chaos of a new place. There was always a comfort in, you know, knowing what truly mattered to me. You know, it's not unlike photography, where you focus on details - everything else fades away.

Eric

Yeah, that's true, John. And, you know, it's kinda wild how core values play out in our creative lives, right? Like, every decision I make is somehow rooted back to those core values. Whether I'm writing a screenplay or building something like the Intention Pen... those values, they they guide me, right? It's like they give me the energy to stay on course when everything else is, like, chaotic.

Eden

Absolutely. And you know, the process of discovering these values isn't just a practical exercise—it's deeply personal, too. It's like turning inward and finding out what really fuels your spirit. It's empowering, you know? There’s there's something about putting those core beliefs into words, onto a page, that makes them real. It steers—just like you said, John—a compass for the life you want to lead.

John

Precisely, Eden. It's, uh, an anchoring point, really. Whether you're in the rigid framework of military life or exploring the vast possibilities of filmmaking, knowing your values helps you—how should I say—maintain your course.

Eric

Right. And, you know, I've found that when I'm clear on those, uh, values, setting intentions is, like, way easier. It's almost like setting those GPS coordinates, you know? You get a lot clearer on what you want. And then all that momentum just builds...

Eden

So true, Eric. It’s not just about identifying your core values, but really living them. Every day, every choice. You align these choices with your values, and suddenly, intentions set, gain this, like, unstoppable power.

Eric

So, let's talk about SMART intentions. I mean, you've probably heard of 'em in like, management books and stuff, but they're not just for business plans. When I first started setting intentions, they weren't always SMART, you know? But when I tweaked 'em—made them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—it was like, like adding juice to my creative projects.

John

Indeed, Eric. SMART intentions are valuable tools. I've seen their power in various aspects of my life—from the disciplined structure of military service to the creative chaos of filmmaking. You align your intentions with your values, and these intentions then serve as a scaffold—providing clarity and, uh, focus.

Eden

Absolutely, John. Aligning intentions with values makes them more powerful. When setting intentions, we are essentially bridging the gap between where we are and where we aspire to be. It's about, you know, being precise in what we want to achieve and recognizing the steps needed to get there, you know?

Eric

Yeah. Like, it's kinda wild when you hit that groove. You set a Specific goal, measure the progress, and make sure it's achievable—I mean, you wanna aim high but realistic, right? So then when you check off that goal, it's such a win!

John

Wins indeed, Eric. And remembering the 'Relevance' aspect is equally crucial—it ensures your intentions resonate with your larger life goals and, well, your core values. Just think of the trajectory in your life journey—it should feel aligned.

Eden

And don’t forget the 'Time-bound' part. It creates urgency—a need to act. But it also makes you mindful of your pace, you know? Sometimes, we rush through without pausing to reflect on how far we’ve come. It's a balance.

Eric

Balance for sure. I mean, living with purpose doesn't mean we hit all the targets immediately, right? It’s those incremental steps, those little reminders of progress, that make the journey worthwhile. Each SMART intention, it's like a chapter in a story that you're actively writing.

John

Quite like writing indeed! Setting SMART intentions is not just about structure; it's about vision—envisioning a pathway that allows your values to guide you, resonate within you, and, uh, chart the course ahead.

Eden

That's it, John. And remember, intentions can evolve as we grow. They adapt. It's not about rigidity but flexibility in aligning with our life's evolution. Keep that pen moving—that page, always open.

Eden

So, we've talked about core values and SMART intentions, but how do we deal with life’s curveballs? You know, those unexpected challenges that threaten to derail us? I believe that’s where the magic of transformation happens. Those obstacles, they’re not just barriers—they’re stepping stones.

John

Indeed, Eden. As I've experienced throughout my journey across various landscapes, each challenge presented me with a unique chance to innovate and adapt. It’s like... um, a fresh canvas where creativity can flourish, if we choose to perceive it as such. The art lies in harnessing that initial frustration—turning raw emotion into constructive energy, wouldn’t you agree?

Eric

Absolutely, John. It's like when things get, you know, tough, you just—think outside the box, right? No matter how stressful it seems, there's always an angle to find. Like when I was working on the Intention Pen, I had so many hurdles, man. But each one taught me something new, shifted my approach. I learned to kinda dance with the rhythm of obstacles, ya know? Their tempo, it's where I found new ideas.

Eden

It's true, Eric. It’s about shifting our mindset—seeing every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Every setback, it's just the universe nudging us towards greatness. When we embrace that, even obstacles become part of our intention work, transforming them into powerful fuel to propel us forward.

John

Precisely, Eden. In reflection, one's journey is never linear; it bends and curves with obstacles designed to refine us, rather than define our limitations. Just as we capture light in the shadows of a photograph, we can capture opportunity amidst adversity. While daunting, these hurdles sharpen our resolve and deepen our narrative, sort of like brushstrokes on a complex painting. The intention is clear, but the path— it's meant to be discovered.

Eric

And you know what's wild? Each time we, like, face down a challenge and come out the other side, we're more equipped for the next one. It's kinda like building that muscle, right? The more you lift, the stronger you become.

Eden

Exactly, Eric. Our resilience grows with each step, each obstacle. So as you journey ahead, embrace the detours and the delays, my friends. They’re the hidden lessons wrapped in the challenges we face, and with each lesson—our intentions kinda reshape, and our core values stand firmer.

John

Yes, let us celebrate these challenges as integral, you know, elements of our story. Like a photograph capturing the dance between light and dark, our lives—enriched by challenges—create a canvas for deeper understanding and unyielding strength. As we close today’s discussion, let these reflections guide you through the hurdles and the opportunities they unveil.