Build an Intentional Life: Sean Johnson's 6-Week Life Design Course
by Sean Johnson
Build an Intentional Life is not just an annual review—it's a comprehensive life design system. Created by Sean Johnson, a Kellogg professor, CEO, and founding partner at Manifold, this 6-week Notion-based course goes far deeper than typical year-end reflection.
What sets this program apart is its scope and depth. Rather than just reviewing the past year, it helps you clarify your 10-year vision, define your core values, build personal operating systems, and establish the habits and cadences that support intentional living.
What is Build an Intentional Life?
Build an Intentional Life is a 6-week Notion-based course that takes you through a complete life design process. It's structured as a journey through six key areas: 10-Year Vision, Values, Goals & Objectives, Personal Operating System, Habit Formation, and Operating Cadence.
Sean Johnson developed this framework after years of coaching executives and entrepreneurs. He found that most people struggle not because they lack goals, but because they haven't done the foundational work of clarifying their values and vision. This course addresses that gap.
How to Use Build an Intentional Life
- 1
Duplicate the Notion workspace to your account
- 2
Week 1: 10-Year Vision — Envision your ideal future across all life dimensions
- 3
Week 2: Values — Clarify your core values and what truly matters to you
- 4
Week 3: Goals & Objectives — Set meaningful goals aligned with your vision and values
- 5
Week 4: Personal Operating System — Design systems that support your goals
- 6
Week 5: Habit Formation — Build the daily habits that drive long-term success
- 7
Week 6: Operating Cadence — Establish review rhythms to stay on track
- 8
Ongoing use — Return to the system throughout the year for reviews and adjustments
Who is Build an Intentional Life Best For?
- Executives and leaders seeking comprehensive life design
- Those at a crossroads wanting to clarify their direction
- Values-driven individuals who want alignment between beliefs and actions
- Systems thinkers who appreciate structured approaches
- Notion power users comfortable with complex workspaces
- Anyone ready for deep work on their life design
Key Features
6-Week Program
Structured journey through complete life design.
10-Year Vision
Think beyond annual goals to long-term direction.
Values Clarification
Define what truly matters to guide decisions.
Personal Operating System
Build systems that support your goals.
Habit Formation
Establish daily practices for long-term success.
Operating Cadence
Create review rhythms to stay intentional.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from an annual review?
This is much more comprehensive. While annual reviews look back at one year, this course helps you design your entire life system—vision, values, goals, habits, and ongoing practices.
Do I need to complete it in 6 weeks?
The 6-week structure is a suggestion. Many people take longer to work through the material deeply. Go at whatever pace allows for genuine reflection.
Is this free?
Yes, Sean offers the course for free. He believes everyone should have access to quality life design tools.
Who is Sean Johnson?
Sean Johnson is a professor at Kellogg School of Management, CEO, and founding partner at Manifold. He has coached over 150 executives on intentional living and leadership.
Do I need Notion experience?
Basic Notion familiarity helps, but the course is designed to be accessible. You'll learn as you go.
Can I use this for annual review?
Yes—the Operating Cadence section includes annual review practices. Many people return to the system each year to review and update their vision and goals.
Ready to Start Your Reflection?
Download Build an Intentional Life for free and begin your year-end reflection journey today.