How Being Intentional Can Improve Your Life — Especially as a Nigerian in the UK

Living in the UK as a Nigerian comes with its own set of challenges — adjusting to a new culture, balancing work and family, dealing with weather wahala, or just trying to make ends meet. But no matter where life takes you, being intentional about how you live can make a huge difference.

Intentional living isn’t just another motivational buzzword — it’s about taking control of your daily decisions so that your life reflects your values, goals, and the future you want for yourself and your family. Let’s break it down 👇🏾

What Does It Mean to Be Intentional?

Being intentional means making choices on purpose, not just coasting through life. It’s thinking about your actions before you take them — whether it’s how you spend your money, who you spend time with, or how you look after your well-being.

For example, instead of endlessly scrolling Instagram after work, you might decide to call a loved one, read a book, or plan your side hustle. Being intentional is all about doing things that align with your goals — even in small ways.

Why Is It Important for Nigerians in the UK?

Let’s be honest — the hustle abroad can be draining. Many of us are working long shifts, sending money home, raising kids, and still trying to “make it.” Being intentional can help you:

✅ Reduce stress
✅ Improve your focus
✅ Strengthen your relationships
✅ Protect your energy
✅ Live with more purpose

If you’re living far from family, feeling isolated, or just mentally tired, intentional living helps you stay grounded and focused on what really matters — not just what’s urgent.

Skills That Help You Live More Intentionally

You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just build these simple skills into your daily routine:

🔹 Goal-setting – Write your goals down and revisit them often. Think SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.

🔹 Self-awareness – Pay attention to your habits. Are they helping or hurting your progress?

🔹 Gratitude – Even with all the struggles, there’s still a lot to be thankful for. Practicing gratitude helps shift your mindset.

🔹 Organisation – A tidy home, a meal plan, or a budget goes a long way in reducing chaos and increasing control.

🔹 Resilience – Life abroad isn’t beans. You need grit to keep moving, even when things don’t go as planned.

10 Practical Ways to Be More Intentional (Naija Style) 🇳🇬💥

1. Set Values-Based Goals

If giving back to your community is a core value, plan how you’ll support others — e.g., mentoring someone back home, helping a friend job-hunt, or volunteering at church.

2. Create a Routine That Works for You

Whether you’re on day shifts or night shifts, build simple habits into your routine — morning devotion, healthy breakfast, evening check-ins with family.

3. Strengthen Meaningful Relationships

Reach out to people who genuinely support you — not just those who always want something. Let go of toxic connections.

4. Make a Vision Board (Yes, Even If It’s on Your Phone!)

Use apps like Canva or just your phone gallery to create a digital mood board with scriptures, quotes, or images that reflect your goals.

5. Declutter Your Space and Life

If you don’t use it, wear it, or need it — donate it, give it away, or bin it. Freeing up physical space can also bring mental clarity.

6. Spend Deliberately

Before buying another “aso ebi” or designer shoe, ask: Is this helping me reach my goals? Spend more on things that add long-term value — like courses, health, or your home.

7. Guard Your Time

Time is precious o! Learn to say “no” politely but firmly. If it doesn’t serve you or your priorities, leave it.

8. Check Your Mental Health

If you’re feeling down, talk to someone. Your GP, church support groups, or Naija UK Connect can help you find mental health resources.

9. Prioritise You

It’s okay to focus on yourself sometimes. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Stop worrying about “what will people say” — you matter too.

10. Stay Positive (Even When It’s Hard)

Life won’t always go your way, but a positive mindset helps you bounce back. Focus on your wins, no matter how small.

Start Living with Intention Today

Intentional living isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being purposeful. It’s those little daily decisions — saving money instead of splurging, praying instead of panicking, taking care of yourself instead of running on empty — that add up to a better life.

So whether you’re a student, a nurse, a mum, a business owner, or just figuring things out in the UK — start small. Choose one area of your life and be more deliberate with it.

You’re building your life brick by brick. Do it intentionally. 💪🏾✨

From the Naija UK Connect team:
We see your hustle. We know it’s not always easy. But we believe in you. Join our community for more tips, encouragement, and support from fellow Nigerians in the UK.

#IntentionalLiving #NaijaUKConnect #NigeriansInUK #WellbeingAbroad #BeDeliberate #YourLifeYourWay

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