Welcome to your new Sunday ritual, where we dive into one word that will guide and inspire us throughout the upcoming week.
Every Sunday, we’ll pick a word—a concept, an idea, a feeling—that can set the tone for how we approach the week ahead. Whether it's something we want to cultivate, focus on, or simply remind ourselves of, this word will be our intention for the week.
Every day, we make decisions—some big, some small—that shape our lives, our mental health, and our well-being. In these moments, discernment is a powerful tool we can use to navigate through it all with clarity and confidence.
What is Discernment?
Simply put, discernment is the ability to make thoughtful, wise decisions by distinguishing between what’s right and wrong, beneficial and harmful, true and false.
It’s not just about what we choose but how we evaluate and understand the underlying motives, consequences, and impacts of those choices. Discernment is about tuning into your inner wisdom, cultivating self-awareness, and being intentional with your decisions—whether that’s choosing products, relationships, or lifestyle habits.
The practice of discernment can help us cut through the noise and make choices that align with our values, mental health, and overall well-being.
3 Ways to Practice Discernment in Your Everyday Life
#1 - Be Intentional About What You Consume
The things you consume—whether it’s food, media, or even products—have a profound effect on your body and mind. Practicing discernment means not just buying things impulsively or mindlessly following trends. Instead, take the time to consider the impact of your purchases.
Is that fast fashion really adding value to your wardrobe, or is it contributing to overconsumption and environmental harm?
Does that social media account align with your mental health, or does it make you feel insecure or anxious?
Am I having this glass of wine to cope with the stress of the day or to complement my meal during a special occasion?
Ask yourself questions like: Is this truly serving me, or am I just giving in to external pressures?
This can help you make better decisions, reduce overwhelm, and promote a lifestyle that is more aligned with your values.
#2 - Make Lifestyle Choices that Prioritize Mental Health
Discernment isn’t just about physical products—it also applies to how we spend our time and energy.
Are you making choices that support your mental well-being, or are you simply reacting to the demands of others?
In an age of constant connectivity and social expectations, it can be hard to say no. But cultivating the ability to discern what’s best for your mental health, even if it means stepping back from certain commitments or relationships, is essential.
Maybe it’s choosing to say “no” to a social event that drains your energy, or it could be opting for a quiet evening of self-care instead of overcommitting to work or family obligations. Discernment helps you set boundaries that protect your peace and well-being.
#3 - Trust Your Intuition in Relationships
When it comes to the people you surround yourself with, discernment is crucial. We all know that not every relationship is positive or healthy.
Practicing discernment means listening to your gut feelings and recognizing red flags—whether it's in romantic relationships, friendships, or professional connections.
Trusting your intuition can help you protect your energy and avoid people who may drain or manipulate you. It’s also about discerning what you need from relationships.
Are you seeking a connection that lifts you up, challenges you, and supports your growth? Or are you settling for something less than you deserve?
By trusting yourself and setting clear standards for your relationships, you can cultivate deeper, more authentic connections that nurture your mental and emotional well-being.
Empowering Yourself to Lead a More Peaceful Life
Discernment is a practice that, when cultivated, empowers you to make choices that are more in tune with your values, needs, and mental health. It’s about slowing down, reflecting, and making decisions from a place of wisdom rather than haste or outside influence.
By practicing discernment in the way we consume, interact, and care for ourselves, we can build a more intentional, mindful life that fosters both personal and collective growth.
Remember, in a world full of noise and external pressures, your ability to discern what’s truly best for you is one of the most powerful tools you can wield. So take a deep breath, trust your inner wisdom, and make decisions that serve your highest self.
About the Author:
Elizabeth Rago is a mama, wife, writer, and the creator of The Modern Domestic Woman (MDW).
Starting with silly beginnings writing about home decor and DIY projects, Elizabeth found MDW to be a happy distraction from her stressful life as a mom of three.
After a series of unfortunate events including job loss, a car accident, bankruptcy, and a physical and emotional breakdown, Elizabeth felt compelled to shift the primary focus of MDW from pretty pictures and goofy memes to a space of honest support for the everyday woman.
Learn more about Elizabeth at MDWcares.com
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