Fall leaves are changing; are you?
Believe me, I too love the slower pace that ushers in fall-- the cooler weather, shorter days, hot soup on the stove, and yes, even the 3pm pumpkin-spiced lattes! It all feels good.
Yet, even with the seasonal stillness ... I believe there is always room for reflection and refinement of our current goals.
So .... If not now, then when?
Sometimes the smallest shifts can make the biggest impact. Here are a few of my favorite ways to bring on a little "pumpkin spice" this fall:
THE "SPARK" COMES FIRST
Start with and recognize what "sparks" you (inspires you). Pay attention to what drains or derails you? Build in the sparks and avoid the derailers. It's that simple!
MINDSET RULES
Mindset is everything – it’s that invisible fuel that powers us to our next destination. Develop a mantra or phrase that has meaning for you and/or your goal.
When you feel reluctant and want to stop – this mantra will trigger activation:
“Show up and Do the Work” or “We Can Do Hard Things” are two easy mantras I often use to get moving again.
THIS TIME IT IS A SPRINT, NOT A MARATHON
Take on a 30 day challenge/sprint — Add a little heat or intensity to the momentum you are trying to create.
Why the sprint? Some of us are at our best when we are laser focused on one thing at a time …
One project
One friend or family reach out each day
One quick sketch or painting for 30 minutes a day
Some kind of exercise every day
No social media for 30 days
Eating vegetarian for 30 days
No alcohol for a month
Practicing a new language for 30 days
Doing some kind of networking or career search for 30 days
Journaling, reflecting, or meditating for 30 days
It's just one small step; every day!
ROUTINE REIGNS SUPREME
Ritualize your day and determine your non-negotiables for each day. Schedule these in the morning. Consider adding the same structure to the evening and focus this time on reflection, gratitude, and a celebration of a productive or meaningful day (morning routine / evening routine).
Finally, set very specific parameters around your non-negotiables – Example(s) might include:
Exercise by 10am
Send 5 network emails or calls by 10a
No social media after 7p
ADD COMMUNITY TO YOUR GOALS (a favorite)
Round up 3-5 others who are also pursuing aspirational goals and enlist an objective facilitator/coach to keep you all supported, motivated, and on track.
(I happen to know someone!!! )
When we commit to having some "skin" in the game, and pair that with a circle of supportive colleagues who are also seeking some kind of new growth, the magic of the circle (with help from the facilitator) yields real results that are fun, enriching, and most importantly, they last!