Falling into our better selves
One of the most commonly watched sports seasons has began…Football Season. Which also means Fall is in the building. Cozy sweaters, bonfires, crisp air, and pumpkins. What better time than now to “Fall into your better self”?
I realized a few years ago that this time of the year can be used as a time of reflection and self-improvement. October is like 4th quarter of a basketball game and a perfect opportunity to measure your successes and failures from the past year. You either finish the quarter strong or map out a plan to try again.
I like to begin my self-reflection time by going for a walk. Outdoor exercise has always been my go-to for igniting my creative juices. It brings fresh ideas and serves as a time of calmness in my life.
During those walks I start with an overwhelming appreciation for the people in my life and what they mean to me.
I reflect on my success and shortcomings personally, socially and within my career. My mind revisits past unaccomplished goals, but with fresh eyes. If you fall, get up and try again. I think about others who may not have made it out of bed or who may be sick, or discouraged by life. I pray for their peace, I pray for their hope for better days.
Reflecting on others and what they may be experiencing can bring an appreciation to your life like no other.
But after breifly reflecting on the past, you have to move forward to the present.
I do this by setting new goals centered around health & wellness, personal, family, career, and finances. This baseline list can vary depending on the individual, so I encourage you to think about areas of your life where you seek improvement and create your own categories.
One of my first goals is centered around health & wellness. A priority for me.
I usually set up a schedule to exercise more including walks, weight training, and calisthencis. In addition to exercise I set a goal of doing a spa day and adding more time for meditation.
self-care is part of health & wellness.
My other goals are centered around the other areas I want to improve in. I go through each and carefully decide on how I can improve and/or accomplish the goal. Many times I use notes in my phone or create a voice memo to outline a plan.
Besides the overall goal I create a plan of action that includes steps on how to get there while celebrating small victories along the way.
The small victories are an important part of the plan because it is what keeps you motivated to see it through. A small victory could be rewarding yourself with a new pair of shoes after staying under your monthly take-out budget in the finance category or having your favorite cheat meal after accomplishing your weekly diet and exercise goal.
I think it’s very important to set big goals but it is equally important for them to be realistic.
“Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars”
I hope you take this time to evolve into the person you were destined to be by acknowledging, reflecting and setting new goals.
As always, I believe in you .You got this!
