Rotman School (Toronto)

Chris Bailey: Intentional

Chris Bailey frames intentional living around twelve universal values—self‑direction, stimulation, hedonism, achievement, power, face, security, tradition, conformity, humility, universalism, and benevolence—arguing that every motivation stems from these guiding principles. He highlights that 81% of New Year’s resolutions fail because people treat goals as fixed predictions rather than adaptable narratives, leading to disappointment when reality diverges. Bailey’s core insight is to align each goal with an individual’s top two values, turning a mundane task into a purpose‑driven action. He illustrates this by reshaping a handbook update (a conformity‑driven duty) into a benevolence‑focused mentorship project, and by reframing a six‑pack ambition from a face‑oriented status symbol to a self‑direction and pleasure experiment. He also shares data‑backed tactics: shrink resistance by starting with shorter time blocks, add structure to unstructured work, and practice aversion journaling to surface and neutralize procrastination triggers. Notable quotes include, “A goal is a prediction, not a guarantee,” and the practical mantra, “When you feel aversion, journal why and reward yourself for acting.” These examples underscore how reframing and incremental commitment can convert resistance into momentum, allowing the same actions to serve deeper personal values. For professionals, the framework suggests a shift from rigid, outcome‑centric planning to a fluid, values‑aligned approach, promising higher adherence, reduced burnout, and more meaningful progress in both personal development and organizational initiatives.