, , , , , , ,

Abundant with possibility

Abundant with possibility

August is a threshold month. We find ourselves no longer in the full bloom of summer, not yet fully immersed in the crisp call of autumn. It is a space that could be thought of as the in-between—a time of somewhat longer shadows, more subtle mornings, with little hints of change on the horizon.

And isn’t that what much of our professional and personal lives are, too? A series of in-between spaces: transitions, pauses, and waiting rooms of the soul.

This August, may you embrace—not resist—the in-between.

Welcoming the In-Between

Career professionals are often conditioned to measure life by achievements: promotions earned, goals completed, deadlines met. Yet the truth is, much of life is lived in the liminal spaces—the stretches between what was and what will be.

These are not wasted intervals. They are fertile ground.

Think of August itself: the gardens ripen, but harvests have not yet fully taken their course. The air still holds summer’s warmth, but autumn whispers its approach. In the same way, the in-between offers ripening—quiet preparation for what comes next.

Instead of rushing to the finish line or clinging to what’s fading, what if we leaned into the mystery of the middle? What if we trusted the in-between?

For mid-career women, the in-between often shows up as:

  • Transitions at work: shifting roles, changing teams, or stepping into leadership.
  • Inner realignment: realizing old definitions of success no longer fit, yet not fully knowing what the new version will be.
  • Seasons of recalibration: caring for family, health, or personal projects alongside professional growth.

These are not detours. They are part of the path.

Sinking in with ease into the in-between doesn’t mean losing momentum—it means honoring the recalibration that ensures the next step is aligned and focused, not forced.

Here’s a brief but powerful way to honor the in-between space you find yourself in.

  1. Find stillness. Sit comfortably. Place your hands gently on your lap, palms up. Close your eyes.
  2. Breathe deeply. Inhale through the nose for a count of four, exhale through the mouth for a count of six. Do this three times.
  3. Visualize. Imagine yourself standing at a bridge. Behind you is what has been—perhaps a project, a role, or even an identity. Ahead of you is what has not yet arrived. Beneath your feet is the bridge—the in-between.
  4. Illuminate. Picture a soft lantern in your hand. As you stand on the bridge, lift it and allow the glow to illuminate the path just enough for the next step—not the whole journey, just the step you need right now.
  5. Affirm. Whisper to yourself: “I am safe in the in-between. I trust the timing of my life.”

When you’re ready, open your eyes. Carry the calm and clarity forward into your day.

For Your Consideration:

August reminds us that beauty exists in transitions. The sunsets lengthen, the cicadas sing, and we realize: life’s richness isn’t only in beginnings and endings—it’s in the becoming.

This month, give yourself permission to honor the spaces that don’t yet have a name. Trust that even in the uncertainty, light is present. You don’t need to know the whole map. You only need to carry the lantern that lights the step you’re on.

The in-between is not empty. Rather, it is abundant with possibilities.

Okay, your turn:

Where in your life or career are you in an in-between space right now? How do you tend to respond to the unknown—by pushing forward, or by embracing the stillness? What gifts might be waiting for you if you chose to relax in the “not yet” instead of anxiously rushing ahead?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by
, , , , , , ,

Being present at work

Being present at work

The Power of Presence: How Being Fully Present Can Boost Your Professional Impact

Let’s face it—between back-to-back meetings, Slack pings, text messages, inbox overload, and that ever-growing mental to-do list (don’t forget to order more dog food!)—it’s easy to lose touch with right now. But here’s the truth: your greatest superpower in any room, any pitch, or any pivotal decision? It’s presence.

Not performance.
Not perfection.
Not hustle.

Presence.

Being fully present in your conversations, leadership, and decision-making allows you to stand out—not by being louder, faster, or flashier—but by being fully here.

And in a professional world that often runs on speed and distraction, presence is a rare and magnetic quality.

Whether you’re running a board meeting, coaching a team, navigating a client conflict, or simply trying to make it through a Monday with grace—presence turns ordinary moments into points of genuine influence.

Why Presence Matters in a Professional Setting

Presence gives you permission to be the most: The most attentive. The most insightful. The most anchored in the moment.

In a sea of distraction, presence is the ultimate differentiator.

Clients. Colleagues. Stakeholders. Direct reports. All humans want to feel like they matter. When you show up fully, you send the message: I see you. I value this moment. I’m not rushing past it.

That matters.

Practicing Presence in Real-Time

So, how do you actually cultivate presence amidst the chaos of your career?

Here are two simple yet powerful ways to honor presence:

“One Window at a Time” Rule

Close the ten open browser tabs. (Yes, even that one with the proverbial rabbit hole you’ve been going down since 9 am.) Give your attention to one thing—one person—one task at a time. Your nervous system will thank you. So will your results.

Weekly Presence Check-In

At the end of each week, ask:

  • When did I feel truly present this week?
  • When did I feel most scattered—and why?
  • What would support me in being more fully present next week?

Presence doesn’t require a silent retreat or a dimly lit meditation room (though we love those, too). It’s available right now, in your real life, as it is.

For Your Consideration:

You already have what it takes to lead with presence. You don’t need to be more. You just need to be here—more often.

This week, pick one moment—just one—to drop into with full awareness. It could be a team meeting, a networking coffee, a call with a client, or even a solo brainstorming session with your journal. Turn down the noise. Turn up your awareness.

Then ask yourself:
What changes when I show up fully?

Chances are, everything.

Your impact doesn’t have to come from doing more.
It can come from being more—present.

Okay, your turn:

  • When was the last time you gave someone your full attention, uninterrupted—even for one minute?
  • Do you feel the need to multitask to prove your value? —Or, are you willing to slow down and trust the power of a focused mind?
  • Are you giving your work your best energy—or merely any leftover scraps after tending to everyone else’s needs first?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by
, , , , , ,

Sunny solstice vibes and strong resilience

As we bask in the afterglow of the summer solstice — the peak day of the year for abundant daylight — we enjoy the powerful light from the year’s high noon.

This time of year offers more than seasonal beauty — it offers a mirror. Take a moment to ask: Where am I standing in full light, and where might I be dimming my shine to survive the pace or politics of my profession?

Let’s shine that light on our career’s longevity. Shall we give it a wellness check? Career resilience isn’t about staying invincible — it’s about staying rooted. This is especially so in a changing world where industries shift, expectations escalate, and depletion threatens to set in.

This Solstice, let’s explore what it means to sustain both our ambition and our wellbeing.

At mid-career, it’s common to reach a quiet crossroads. You’ve built the skills. You’ve collected the titles. And yet… there’s a subtle tug, asking whether success as it’s been defined still fits who you’re becoming.

The Solstice offers a metaphor and a message: Things that have grown in shadow can now be seen. That may be in the form of patterns you’ve tolerated. Or, narratives you’ve accepted. Or, boundaries that have been bent or broken. All can come up for review.

Resilience doesn’t mean bouncing back to status quo. It means honoring your own evolution.

So instead of powering through, this season calls you to burrow inward — into clarity, into alignment, into a deeper level of self-respect.

Career Resilience, Redefined

Let’s retire the outdated model of career toughness that glorifies overworking and stoicism. True resilience today looks different:

  • It’s fluid, not rigid.
    (You adjust with grace, not grind.)
  • It’s values-led, not ego-driven.
    (You act from alignment, not from fear of falling behind.)
  • It’s sustainable, not sacrificial.
    (You protect your energy while you amplify your excellence.)

You get to honor your ambition and your boundaries. That’s not weak — that’s wisdom.

A Summer Solstice Self-Check

Here’s a quick check-in you can do in five minutes or less:

  1. Step outside into the light. Let the sun touch your skin, even if only for a few brief moments.
  2. Take three grounding breaths. Let each one drop you further into the present.
  3. Ask yourself: What’s one thing I need to say no to right now in order to say yes to myself?
  4. Write that one thing down. Declare it. Practice it.

Sometimes resilience is built in the smallest of refusals — refusing to self-abandon, refusing to over-commit, refusing to cower or shrink.

For Your Consideration:

You’ve already done the hard work of arriving where you are. The question now is how to remain there — and grow — without compromising your authenticity.

The Solstice doesn’t just celebrate the light outside — it honors the light within. Let that guide you forward, bravely, beautifully, and without undue sacrifice.

Okay, your turn:

What does resilience mean to you? Can you recall a moment in your life or career where you really dug down deep and anchored yourself in a way that helped you emerge even stronger than ever?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by
, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Permission granted

The Power of Healthy Permission

After the surge of spring’s bloom and the bustle of early-year momentum, here we are approaching the midway point of the year. View this not as a halt, but a moment to regroup, re-center, and reconnect.

This new moon, what if you granted yourself permission?

Not the reluctant kind that comes with guilt or second-guessing. But full-hearted, grace-filled permission to slow down, take stock, and tend to your inner rhythm.

Think back to the intentions you set earlier this year. Maybe you are nurturing a creative dream, revamping your relationship with sleep, or learning how to better advocate for yourself. Maybe you are still unsure of what is shifting, only that something is.

Wherever you are, May is a natural time to check in—not with judgment, but with curiosity. Let this be your green light to listen to what you need.

There is power in permission. It is not passive—it is intentional. It is a sacred “yes” to your inner intelligence.

So, give yourself permission to rest without apologizing. To say no without explaining. To shift course without proving. To simply be—without the need to fix, finish, or perform.

Recharging is not avoidance.
Regrouping is not weakness.
Reassessing is not failure.

These are acts of radical clarity—

and essential steps on any path

that is rooted in soul truth.

For your consideration:

You do not need to justify realignment. You only need to remember that you are allowed—always—to care for yourself with kindness and clarity.

Let this be your consent form. Not to do more, but to be more present with what feels best in this moment.

And if you are only able to tend to one area right now, let that be enough. If your progress is quiet or nonlinear, let that be enough. If your biggest act of courage this month is relaxing and listening to hear what you need, let that be enough.

This is your month of permission.

Honor it. Embrace it.
And above all, trust it.

Okay, your turn:

When is the last time you cut yourself some slack? Can you do so now, in this very moment? Ease into the day or evening?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by
, , , , , , ,

Top Mini-Habits for Staying Energized During Long Workdays

Maintaining your wellbeing on the daily

If you’re working through the beautiful complexity of a mid-career life — balancing leadership, impact, and your own wellbeing — you already know: Energy management is everything.

It’s not about pushing harder. It’s about staying connected to yourself in small but powerful ways throughout the day.

Here are mini-habits you can weave into even the busiest schedule to keep your energy steady, your mind clear, and your spirit strong:

1. Stop, breathe, and slow your roll (90-Second Reset)

Between meetings or tasks, take 90 seconds to take three slow, peaceful breaths.
Notice: How am I feeling? What do I need right now?

Why it matters:
You shift out of auto-pilot and back into conscious choice — where your real power lives.

2. Nourish Strategically

Think of your meals and snacks as energy investments, not merely fuel. It’s more than vaguely thinking “oh, I better eat healthy.”

Instead of skipping lunch or grabbing another coffee, build simple, nutrient-rich meals (hello, protein + fiber!) that actually stabilize your blood sugar and mood.

Mini habit:
Keep a stash of energizing snacks you love — think almonds, berries, hard-boiled eggs, or a clean protein bar — easily within reach.

3. Move in Microbursts

Instead of waiting for your post-work workout (which you may or may not have energy for!), sprinkle in active movement throughout your day.

Try this:

  • 1 minute of stretching between meetings
  • 10 squats while waiting for your tea to steep
  • A quick 3-minute walk outside to recharge your creativity

Movement signals to your body: “I’m alive, I’m safe, I’m thriving.”

4. Reclaim Your Transitions

Instead of rushing from one thing to the next, use transitions as sacred spaces. After a big meeting or a focused work sprint, take a mindful moment before jumping into the next thing.

Simple practices:

  • Step outside for a few minutes of fresh air, and:
    • look at something off in the distance
    • or, as the newest saying goes: “touch grass.”
  • Listen to one soul-nourishing song
  • Jot down one success or moment you’re proud of from the last task

These tiny rituals create energetic closure — and help ease any persistent “cognitive clutter.”

5. Close the Day with a Victory Lap

At the end of the day, spend just 2 minutes writing down three things you accomplished — big or small.
Not everything will get done. But progress deserves to be celebrated, always.

Bonus:
This practice also primes your mind for rest and recovery overnight, so you wake up more refreshed.

For your consideration:

Work days turn into work weeks and before you know it, entire months have flown by, with barely a moment taken to reflect and to act with intention.

You don’t have to live that way. You don’t have to be on auto-pilot. Remember, you are a human, not a machine. Stay connected to your desires. Stay connected to you.

Okay, your turn:

Do you approach your daily work activities with intention? Are you aware of your energy levels throughout the day? Do you take control of your schedule, or do you let others run roughshod over your commitments and time?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by
, ,

Spring is here!

Spring has sprung!

Spring is a perfect time to reflect on the past few months and chart a course for the future. In this article, we’ll explore the essence of the spring season, review our progress since the start of the year, and outline actionable steps for making meaningful adjustments.

Embracing the Spirit of Spring

Spring symbolizes growth and rejuvenation. As nature awakens, it invites us to break free from the stagnation of winter. The longer days, warmer temperatures, and vibrant colors remind us that every ending carries the promise of a new beginning. Whether you’re tending to a garden or enjoying a hike in the mountains, spring’s energy encourages us to adopt a mindset of renewal and possibility.

Reflecting on the Start of the Year

The first three months of the year often set the tone for what follows. Now is the time to pause and consider the progress you’ve made. Ask yourself:

  • What priorities did you set at the beginning of the year?
    Reflect on your intentions, whether they pertain to personal growth, career objectives, or health and wellness.
  • Where have you succeeded?
    Acknowledge your wins—big or small—and celebrate the milestones that have contributed to your journey.
  • What challenges have you encountered?
    Understanding obstacles is crucial. Were there unexpected setbacks or changes in priorities that made certain goals harder to reach?

Taking this reflective inventory helps in recognizing both achievements and areas that require fine-tuning.

Identifying Areas for Improvement

Spring is not just a season of beauty—it’s also a great opportunity to reframe your strategies. Consider these aspects for adjustment:

  1. Desires for the year:
    Revisit your initial new year’s vision. Are your desires the same, or have they changed? Have they morphed into something even better?
  2. Time Management:
    Evaluate how you’re allocating your time. Are there tasks or commitments that no longer serve your primary objectives? Reducing or eliminating non-essential activities can free up time for pursuits that add real value.
  3. Wellness Practices:
    The journey to success is holistic. Incorporate practices that nurture your mental and physical well-being—regular exercise, mindfulness, and even moments of quiet reflection.
  4. Learning and Growth:
    Have you made time to learn new skills or expand your knowledge? Continuous improvement is key to both personal and professional development.

Action Steps for a Fresh Start

With reflection complete, here are actionable steps to harness the energy of spring and propel yourself forward:

  • Set Specific, Measurable Mile Markers. Define what success looks like for the remainder of the year. Instead of vague resolutions, establish clear targets. For example, if health is a priority, set a goal like “exercise for 30 minutes, five times a week.”
  • Create a Balanced Schedule:
    Use a planner or digital calendar to map out your day-to-day activities. Prioritize tasks that align with your desires and set aside time for self-care and learning.
  • Establish Accountability:
    Share your mile markers with a friend or join a community group that supports your ambitions. Accountability can increase motivation and provide a support network when challenges arise.
  • Practice Mindfulness and Reflection:
    Dedicate a few minutes each day to meditate or journal. Reflect on your progress, challenges, and successes. This habit not only reduces stress but also keeps your desires and intentions in full view.
  • Celebrate Small Wins:
    Recognize the progress you make, no matter how small. Celebrating these milestones reinforces positive behavior and motivates you to keep moving forward.

Why These Action Steps Matter

Implementing these steps is more than just ticking items off a checklist—it’s about creating a sustainable framework for growth.

  • Clarity and Direction: Clear mile markers provide a roadmap, reducing the chance of feeling overwhelmed or lost.
  • Increased Productivity: A structured schedule helps you manage time efficiently, ensuring that your energy is directed towards what truly matters.
  • Emotional Well-being: Regular self-reflection and mindfulness promote a balanced mindset, making it easier to navigate life’s inevitable ups and downs.
  • Community Support: Accountability fosters a sense of connection and encouragement, reminding you that progress is a shared journey.

For your consideration:

Embrace the renewal essence of the spring season. Review your progress since the start of the year. What’s worked so far? What needs more focused attention? Outline actionable steps for making meaningful adjustments. Do it before the end of this weekend.

Okay, your turn:

How’s your progress been so far this year? Have you revisited your theme or vision for this year?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by
, , , , , , ,

Fanciful Fusion of Fun and Fragrance

February unfolds as a fascinating mosaic of frosty fun and forward-thinking flair—a month that effortlessly blends the magic of winter with the promise of imminent renewal. With its mix of festive fervor, reflective moments, and a sprinkle of seasonal charm, February invites us to celebrate life in both its jubilant bursts and its quieter, introspective moments of repose.

A Month of Magic and Emergence

As the shortest month on the calendar, February may seem fleeting, but it packs an impressive punch of personality and poetic promise. The crisp, fragrant air carries a unique perfume—a blend of winter’s lingering chill and nature’s subtle prelude to spring. February offers a dual experience: a time to embrace both lively celebrations and the soft whisper of change.

Historical and Cultural Perspectives

February has long held a place in history as a month of both festivity and introspection. Ancient festivals and traditions celebrated this time of year as a period of purification and preparation, setting the stage for the eventual blossoming of spring. Today, these historical threads interweave with modern customs. The month is not only about love and romance but also about cherishing friendships and family bonds.

As you enjoy a frosty day or a festive gathering, consider how the traditions of yesteryear have influenced today’s celebrations, infusing each moment with a sense of purpose and connection.

Flavors, Festivals, and Fragrances

Beyond its historical significance, February is a sensory delight. Culinary enthusiasts revel in seasonal treats that are as flavorful as they are fun. Imagine enjoying a feast of comforting, aromatic dishes that perfectly mirror the month’s chilly charm—a veritable festival for your taste buds! Whether it is sipping on a fragrant spiced tea or savoring a hearty stew, each bite and every sip makes for a multisensory experience.

For Your Consideration:

Embracing the Chill and the Change

The gentle frost that decorates the landscapes of February is more than just a seasonal occurrence—it is a metaphor for life’s transient beauty. The chill in the air encourages us to draw closer to warmth, whether through the company of loved ones or the solace of personal reflection. In these cool moments, we find a powerful reminder that every ending, every freezing moment, is merely a prelude to transformation. The promise of spring lies just beyond the horizon, waiting to unfurl in a burst of colorful creativity and natural rebirth.

Reflection and Renewal

February’s dual nature—as both a time of celebration and contemplation—offers a unique opportunity for personal growth. The month gently nudges us to balance our inner lives with the external joys of the season. It invites us to pause, reflect, and prepare for the future with a spirit that is both free and focused. Whether you are reconnecting with old passions or discovering new interests, February serves as a fertile ground for introspection and renewal.

February is more than a mere marker on the calendar; it is a vibrant, multifaceted experience that celebrates life in all its forms. With its blend of festive energy, historical depth, and sensory delights, the month challenges us to find beauty in every moment—be it frosty or fragrant, fast-paced or reflective. As you navigate this marvelous month, let its fun and fanciful spirit inspire you to live with creative joy, embrace new beginnings, and cherish the subtle magic that lies within every fleeting moment.

Some recommendations:

  • Festive Celebrations: Embrace the lingering spirit of February by engaging in events into March that celebrate love, friendship, and creativity. Each festivity, from intimate dinners to grand parties, is an opportunity to revel in a blend of fun and finesse.
  • Fragrant Moments: Take time to notice the subtle, refreshing scents that characterize this time of year. Whether it is the crisp smell of freshly fallen snow or the hint of early spring hidden beneath winter’s surface, these fragrances are nature’s own celebration.
  • Forward-Thinking Flair: Let February inspire you to dream and plan. The month’s reflective quiet is a perfect backdrop for setting goals, embarking on new projects, or simply enjoying moments of mindful introspection.

Okay, your turn:

What would tickle your fancy this time of year? How about trying something new, or some things you’ve already done, but this time combining them into something new? I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by
, , , , ,

Welcoming February: Easing Into New Rhythms

As January draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and recalibrate. For many, January begins with a rush of ambition—fresh resolutions, bold plans, and the determination to tackle the year ahead. The initial burst of motivation can start to wane, however, as we juggle life’s demands. And that’s okay.

The end of January marks a natural shift. It’s a gateway into February, a month that invites us to find balance, embrace gentler rhythms, and focus on sustainable growth. If January is about setting the stage, February is about settling into the performance—with grace and ease.

Here’s how to transition smoothly and make the most of this fresh chapter:

Celebrate Your Wins—Big and Small

Before you dive into February, take a moment to recognize everything you’ve accomplished so far. Maybe you started a new habit, learned something new, or simply made it through a challenging day. Each of these is a victory worth celebrating. Write them down, savor them, and remind yourself that progress—no matter how small—is still progress.

Refresh Your Intentions

February is an excellent time to revisit and refine your goals. Instead of sticking rigidly to a resolution, think of it as evolving. Maybe you have discovered better ways to approach your objectives or uncovered new interests that excite you. Adaptation is key to long-term success and satisfaction.

Embrace the Power of Small Steps

In February, shift your focus from grand gestures to small, meaningful actions. Tiny, consistent efforts compound over time and are much easier to sustain. Whether it’s five minutes of meditation, a short walk, or sending a thoughtful text to a loved one, these micro-moments of intention can make a big difference.

Find Joy in the Everyday

February might be the shortest month, but it’s packed with potential for everyday joy. Lean into the little things that bring you happiness: a cozy cup of tea, a good book, a favorite playlist, or even just a moment of quiet. These simple pleasures can help you stay grounded and energized.

Connect and Recharge

Winter can sometimes feel isolating, but February is a great time to reconnect with your community or loved ones. A meaningful conversation or shared laughter can be deeply restorative. At the same time, honor your need for rest and recalibration.

Declutter Your Space

A clear space often leads to a clear mind. Use February to tackle small decluttering projects around your home or workspace. Even organizing one drawer or clearing off your desk can create a sense of accomplishment and make your environment more inviting. Is there something you can discard, or donate?

For your consideration:

February is your opportunity to ease into the year with intention, balance, and joy. It’s a time to honor both your aspirations and your need for rest, to celebrate progress and to embrace change. As the days grow a little longer and the promise of spring approaches, take heart in knowing you’re exactly where you need to be.

Here’s to a fulfilling February filled with small wins, meaningful connections, and a rhythm that feels just right for you.

Okay, your turn:

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2025 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by
, , , , , , ,

New Year’s Resolutions: Yay or Nay?

As we move from December into January and a new calendar year, the world collectively seemingly buzzes with the chatter of resolutions. Some vow to exercise more, others promise to save money, and a bold few aim to climb metaphorical or literal mountains. Yet, alongside this wave of ambition, an equally familiar critique emerges: “Why bother? Resolutions never stick.”

It is true. Many resolutions do not survive past February. The gym-goers vanish, the budgeting apps are abandoned, and the excitement fades. But does that mean New Year’s resolutions are inherently flawed? I would argue no. Resolutions, even when imperfectly executed, hold a certain kind of magic — a spirit of hope and renewal that we should not dismiss too quickly.

The Gift of Reflection

One of the most valuable aspects of making resolutions is the contemplation it demands. How often do we truly stop and take stock of our lives? The end of the year offers a natural checkpoint, inviting us to reflect on where we are and where we would like to go. Even if the goals themselves do not materialize, the act of reflection can be a gift in and of itself. It is an opportunity to reassess our priorities, celebrate our progress, and dream about what is next.

A Spark for Momentum

Resolutions create a spark. In those first weeks of January, the energy is palpable. People are trying new things, from meal prepping to morning yoga. This energy can be contagious, inspiring not just individual change but community shifts. Sure, not every spark leads to a fire, but does that make the spark meaningless? Even a brief burst of enthusiasm can remind us of what is possible when we try.

Progress, Not Perfection

Here is the thing: Resolutions do not have to be perfect to be worthwhile. So, what if you only stick to your new habit for a month or a single moon cycle? That is several weeks of change you would not have had otherwise. Maybe the resolution was not realistic, or perhaps life threw curve balls your way. But any progress, however small, counts. Growth is rarely linear, and resolutions can be a part of that messy, beautiful process.

A Collective Reset

There is something powerful about the collective nature of New Year’s resolutions. Around the globe, people simultaneously commit to becoming better versions of themselves. It is a reminder that we are all striving, growing, and evolving in our own unique ways. This shared sense of purpose can foster connection and compassion, even if our paths diverge.

For your consideration:

Reframing Resolutions

Perhaps the problem is not the resolutions themselves but the way we approach them. Instead of setting rigid, all-or-nothing goals, what if we reframed them as intentions or themes for the year? “Be more present,” “Prioritize health,” or “Explore creativity” are flexible yet meaningful aspirations that allow for ebb and flow. This approach invites growth without the pressure of perfection.

Embracing the Imperfection

In a world that often glorifies cynicism, it is easy to scoff at New Year’s resolutions. But perhaps their imperfection is part of their charm. They remind us that change is possible, even if it is hard. They invite us to dream, reflect, and try, knowing full well that we might stumble along the way. And isn’t that the essence of being human?

So, this New Year, whether you are resolving to complete a triathlon, learn another language, or simply drink more water, embrace the effort. Resolutions may not be perfect, but they are not all bad. They are a testament to our enduring hope, our willingness to try, and our capacity for change. And that, I think, is worth celebrating.

Okay, your turn:

What is your approach to the new year? Do you embrace the possibilities? Do you simply turn the page on the calendar and barely notice anything is different? Would you like to make positive changes?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2024 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by
, , , , , ,

From November to December: A cozy glide into the holiday season

Ah, November into December—when every passing hour feels like a gentle nudge toward resplendent festivities, gobs of food, and plenty of good cheer.

The Great November-December Crossover

November serves as the opening act to December’s headliner. Think of it as the time to stock up on all things cozy: warm drinks, fuzzy socks, fluffy blankets, and the occasional emotional support pie. Thanksgiving leftovers are still in the fridge when holiday music sneaks its way into our playlists, unapologetically drowning out whatever chill vibes we thought we would stick to.

By the time December arrives, in the Northern hemisphere we have gone from sweater weather to “where is my coat?” The shift happens faster than you can say “holiday spirit.”

November serves as a warm-up for December’s culinary Olympics. After Thanksgiving, we think, “I couldn’t possibly eat another big meal.” Enter December, laughing in the form of cookie platters, eggnog, and a buffet of things you didn’t know could be dipped in chocolate.

For Your Consideration:

December knows how to pile it on—but here is the secret to success: remember that balance you have been working on (yeah, you!) Say yes to the cookie exchange but no to the third Secret Santa. Prioritize what brings you joy, whether that is a full holiday movie binge or a quiet evening with tea and twinkly lights.

So, cheers to a delightful glide from November into and throughout December—may it be a splendid holiday season filled with laughter, snuggly warmth, and just enough time to take a really good nap.

Okay, your turn:

What’s the transition from November into December look like for you? Any traditions you enjoy?

I invite you to share your observations, feelings, and experiences by leaving a Reply in the Comments section, below. Soul-to-soul!

© 2024 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

/0 Comments/by