In this series I explain terms used in the low impact movement, lifestyle terms, and other verbiage that I use on my blog and in my daily life. Simply, in case they are new to readers. In some cases, I have done some research on them, but these definitions are mostly what I understand them to be and how I use them.
Here at Mad Cat Quilts, you might see these words used often. For our definitions this month, I thought I would clarify three well used terms by explaining their definitions, what they mean, and how we use them.
Authentic
”of undisputed origin; genuine.”
Living authentically refers to living a life that you want to live, not that is put forth as one you should live. It’s easy to get bogged down in the popular aspects of how life should be lead whether you are trying to achieve zero waste, homesteading, or a “normal” life. Someone is always selling somehting to make that life more achievable. Whether it’s product, a idea, a gadget, or an aesthetic, the media and other sales people want to tell you what’s best for you. Being authentic means being true to ones self, whether that truth is “cool” (hip, trendy, rich, beautiful, etc…) or not. Authenticity is not sustained by what you have, or how you look, but by being true to who you are.
Intentional
”done on purpose; deliberate.”
Living intentionally is how we manifest our authentic selves. By thinking about our purchases, decisions, actions, words, with intention we are able to better be our authentic selves. When something is thought out, thought about, examined and then put into action it is intentional. That is how we want to live.
Mindful
”conscious or aware of something. focusing one's awareness on the present moment, especially as part of a therapeutic or meditative technique.”
When we talk about mindfulness, we are mostly talking about being aware in the moment, of our actions, of the consequences, our intentions and out authentic selves. When we are mindful of ourselves and others and our impact on the world around us and on a global level we can live more authentically. We can be more conscious and conscientious, and live lives that are healthier for all.
Is this how you would define these terms?