From Urgency to Intention: Why Peace is the Ultimate ROI

Often we believe that productivity is the byproduct of busyness. We rush through our days, ticking off boxes and chasing “next,” under the impression that speed equals progress. But recently, I’ve realized that the most profound growth doesn’t happen in the rush—it happens in the stillness.

As I’ve been diving into the works of Brené Brown and studying the art of crucial conversations, I’ve had a striking realization: Peace emerges when solitude becomes a choice rather than a circumstance.

The Shift from “Passing Time” to “Investing Energy”

For a long time, the “rush” felt mandatory. But as I’ve begun to embrace my own company and recognize my inherent self-worth, the urgency has started to melt away. I’ve reached a point where I recognize that my home is a sanctuary and my family is my anchor.

When you realize you are never truly alone—because you finally enjoy your own company—the need to “busy” yourself with others just to fill the void disappears.

This leads to a powerful shift in how we view our daily lives:

• Work becomes a tool to facilitate freedom (paying off debt, sustaining life).

• Time becomes a canvas rather than a ticking clock.

• Energy becomes a limited currency we must spend with intention.

The Power of Intentionality

If we want to effect real change in our lives or our organizations, we cannot be on autopilot. Intentionality must be applied to three specific areas:

1. Our Thoughts: Protecting our inner peace from the noise of “not enough.”

2. Our Words: Using effective questions and courageous communication (as seen in Dare to Lead).

3. Our Actions: Choosing where to show up and, more importantly, where to stay away.

Finding the Sustainable Balance

Living intentionally doesn’t mean we stop working or striving; it means we stop rushing toward a finish line that doesn’t exist. It’s about finding that sustainable balance between our responsibilities—like financial freedom—and our personal peace.

Today, I’m not just “spending” my time. I’m choosing how to invest my energy. And I’ve found that when I choose solitude and family over the noise of the crowd, the return on investment is always peace.