In this episode, we talked about:
- Why intentions can be more effective than traditional goal-setting.
- Maintaining long-distance friendships through quality time and social media.
- Focusing on physical health and making it enjoyable.
- Experiencing the unique beauty and community of Galliano Island, Canada.
Listen to the full episode now:
“My word of the year this year is embrace. So whatever happens, that’s my guiding point.”
Timestamp:
- 0:00 episode preview
- 0:24 intro
- 2:26 why we’re choosing intentions over goals
- 8:27 how we maintain long-distance friendships
- 11:52 our latest intentions: focusing on physical health
- 14:52 experience in galiano island, canada
- 17:43 final thoughts & wrap-up
“The best love language I have is quality time.”
Connect With Kendall:
Kendall’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unikornlife/
Detailed Summary:
Introduction
Life is full of moments that remind us to pause, reconnect, and reflect. On a serene island in West Coast Canada, I had one of those moments with my dear friend Kendall McLaughlin. For this episode of Small Girl Big Talk, we swapped our cozy living room studio for a literal hot tub on Galliano Island, catching up after nearly nine years. Between the steam, warm water, and scenic backdrop, we discussed intentions, friendships, and reconnecting with oneself and others.
Choosing Intentions Over Goals
One of the central themes of our conversation was the power of intentions. For me, traditional goal-setting often feels overwhelming and stressful. Instead, I focus on intentions—broad guiding principles that help navigate choices without creating pressure. “My word of the year this year is embrace. So whatever happens, that’s my guiding point,” I shared.
For this trip, my intentions were clear: celebrate my best friends’ wedding, reconnect with old friends like Kendall, and revisit meaningful places from my past in Vancouver. These intentions helped me prioritize what truly mattered, without feeling weighed down by a strict agenda.
Maintaining Long-Distance Friendships
Kendall and I have mostly stayed connected through long messages or social media over the years. Despite the gaps in regular communication, quality interactions in person make a huge difference. “The best love language I have is quality time,” I reflected. For both of us, social media acts as a bridge to keep up with each other’s lives while reserving in-person moments for deeper connection.
Even after eight years apart, reconnecting felt natural and effortless. In less than twelve hours on Galliano Island, we shared laughter, stories, and created new memories that felt just as meaningful as those from our university days.
Focusing on Physical Health
Another key intention we discussed was personal wellbeing, especially maintaining physical health. Being in a place where one can interact with nature and experience a slower pace of life inspired reflection on long-term health. “I want to start maintaining my body now so I can help myself—just be independent and able to move and do fun things as I continue to age,” I explained.
Kendall emphasized finding activities that are not only healthy but enjoyable. Whether it’s rock climbing, trail running, or long walks, the goal is consistency and joy rather than just discipline.
Experiencing Galliano Island
Galliano Island itself added a special layer to our conversation. With only 1,300 households, it feels like a small-town paradise, where community ties are strong and nature is abundant. We explored a local soup kitchen, attended a yoga session at the community hall, and simply enjoyed the serene surroundings.
The island allowed us to slow down and reflect. “The moment I got off the ferry, I was like, ‘Holy [ __ ] this is so beautiful,’” I shared. Being in the Pacific Northwest with its ocean views, mountains, and lush forests reminded us to embrace the environment around us as part of the journey.
Conclusion
This hot tub conversation with Kendall reaffirmed the value of setting intentions, nurturing relationships, and embracing life’s experiences fully. While goals can create pressure, intentions provide freedom, focus, and clarity. Reconnecting with old friends, prioritizing health, and immersing ourselves in beautiful surroundings are reminders that meaningful moments are often found in simplicity and presence.
