Two years ago, I wanted freedom from a stuck life, and now I have more freedom than ever before. Yet…I’ve found myself in a mild rut over the past month, and I’m intentionally taking action steps over the next 30 days to experience more freedom (coupled with responsibility).

After a great discussion with Laura on the way home from Sacramento this weekend, I was glad to hear that she was in full support of a 30 day plan. In some ways, I used to think “freedom” was the lack of plans, routine, or boundaries. In reality, that’s called suicide. (Ask me how I know.) Therefore, I’m envisioning the next 30 days as a self-directed curriculum that is centered around intentionality. I seek to live an intentional life, but the next 30 days will be even more focused on taking me out of my usual routine.

In order to maintain a creative intentionality, I’m choosing to avoid any browsing of Facebook or Twitter although I will continue to update you on the 30 days via Twitter on my phone as well as my blog.

Creative Focus

  1. 8TRACKstudios
    In terms of my Monday-Friday time, 8TRACKstudios is my #1 priority, because I’m committed to serving our clients (current and upcoming). I LOVE working with businesses and their communications, and projects have been quite steady for the last 9 months. It has slowed down a bit, but I’m committed to resist pushing the growth of the business. As new clients find that 8TRACKstudios is a great marketing partner, we invest a full focus. Yet, a lighter load is freeing up some of my time to be invested in new ways.
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  2. Health
    A couple of years ago, I lost 35 pounds on the “affair and divorce” diet, and I’ve managed to gain it all back. I’m not feeling so good about my gut or energy level. I’m experimenting with a slow carb diet that Tim Ferriss has outlined. I’ve never severely changed my diet, but I’m interested in trying this for 30 days alongside everything else.
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  3. Writing
    The majority of my remaining weekly investment will be put toward my writing. I was focused on a particular project for the last few weeks, but it’s just not gelling for me. Therefore, I’m putting it aside and picking up the next project. My goal is to complete the book in the next 30 days for an earlier release date.
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  4. Filming
    With a great deal of teaching experience in front of the camera, I’m ready to film my first DVD in conjunction with the book I’ll complete this month.

Creative Concentrations

  1. Painting
    I enjoy painting from time to time, and I’m planning to spend some time creating some pieces that combine my photography.
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  2. Typewriting
    I’m interested in creating some type written creative pieces that combine photography and poetry…as well as type written notes to clients and friends.
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  3. Flower arranging
    For years, I’ve wanted to take a flower arranging class, and I’m excited to do that over the next 30 days. Yes, I know…no need to even comment.
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  4. Photographing
    Although photography can feel like “work” sometimes, I’m wanting to experience the freedom of giving myself an assignment. Over the next 30 days, I’ll be creating my first photo book that I’ll shoot, design, layout, and publish.

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Creative Re-creation

  1. Family Time
    We have more family time now than ever before. I’ll continue to keep that as a time or re-creation…lots of adventure…lots of fun.
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  2. Meditation
    I plan to spend a portion of each day meditating on the Scriptures and experiencing a greater awareness of God’s presence.
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  3. Art Galleries
    I plan to visit at least one gallery over the course of the next 30 days.
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  4. Independent Stores
    I’ll be heading to LA each week to venture into new stores for inspiration and refreshment..

I’m interested to see how this “30 Days of Intention” experiment goes. I’ll be blogging every day to keep you up to date on how things are going.

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  1. 30 Days of Intention – Wrap Up | David Trotter >> Creative Communicator | Marketing Strategist - May 18, 2010

    [...] 30 days ago, I set out to be more “intentional” about some things in my life…particularly in the area of creativity. I felt like I was getting in a bit of a rut (i.e., working for work sake), and I didn’t want to settle in. So, I set my intention on a number of things. I’m bummed that I didn’t pull off everything I set out to do, but I ended up experiencing more than I expected as well! A Few Highlights [...]