Intentional Acts, Lasting Impact

Reflecting on my life, soccer has played a crucial role.

I enjoyed it as a kid. It taught me humility, resilience, and grit as I proved myself in a men’s league. It also provided me with a great community. One of those people—Oscar—would show me how to live an intentional life.

While playing one day, I told Oscar that I wasn’t sure what to do with my life. Should I go back to school for an MBA? Education leadership? Or just leave teaching and start over? He was a consultant, so I figured he could help me.

We met, and he pointed out truths I had never considered. He helped me see that I often used my introversion as a shield. We discussed great books I could learn from, and different ways to view reality. Out of all the wisdom, challenges, and inspiration, one idea stood above the rest.

He asked me why he plays soccer.

I told him it was probably because he liked it.

He smiled and said yes—but also for exercise, and for community building.

He was stacking wins.

He enjoyed soccer, but he also gained health and connection. One act, multiple outcomes.

That completely changed the way I viewed my own choices. I used to evaluate activities at face value, which left me aimless. My desires shifted daily. But now, I began to see choices as building blocks rather than isolated decisions.

Soccer became an intentional act—one with lasting rewards.

When I moved to a new town and joined a new parish, soccer became a way to integrate into the community. It allowed me to meet other men, build relationships, coach local boys, and play a game I truly enjoyed. One simple act—many stacked wins.

Even this newsletter is intentional. I write it to practice communication, to share what I’ve learned with others (including my son), and because one day I hope to write a book. This one act carries many benefits.

That small mindset shift—stacking wins—has wide-ranging effects. It helps motivate us. It makes our time more efficient. And it helps us cut out activities that don’t actually serve our mission.

As with most good things, this isn’t a quick fix. It’s not flashy. But it’s a subtle shift that gives you clarity and traction.

Each small choice is one small strike of the hammer.

Your Challenge This Week

Reflect on the activities in your life:

• What do you participate in right now?
• What benefits do they bring to you, your family, and your community?
• Are you stacking wins—or drifting?
• Is it time to shift what you do, or how you approach it?

Leave a comment on how you live an intentional life.

Be intentional. And if you’re unsure, ask a brother to help you see more clearly.

Anvil: the place of formation.
Arrow: the mission we’re sent on.