Tag Archive for: inspired action

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.

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!

The energy of it all

In today’s fast-paced world, we often find ourselves juggling multiple responsibilities, leaving little room for rest and reflection. Let’s explore how you can stay grounded, conserve your energy, and reduce unnecessary labor, all while having a bit of fun along the way.

1. The Art of Prioritization: Focus on What Truly Matters

Your energy can wane, so choose wisely what you focus on.

Practical Tip: Make a list of your daily tasks and categorize them into three buckets: Must-Do, Should-Do, and Could-Do. Focus on the Must-Do items first, and if you have time and energy left, tackle the Should-Do’s. The Could-Do’s? Save them for a rainy day—or better yet, delegate or delete them!

Fun Twist: Turn prioritizing into a game! Challenge yourself to finish your Must-Do list by noon, so you can spend the afternoon indulging in something fun, like a hobby or a mini-adventure.

2. Delegate Like a Pro: Share the Load

Ever tried to carry all the groceries in one trip? Sure, it feels like an Olympic feat, but it is not the smartest way to conserve energy. The same goes for tasks—carrying the weight of every responsibility is a surefire way to burn out.

Practical Tip: Identify tasks that others can do just as well (or even better) than you. Whether it is at work or home, do not hesitate to delegate. Trust in others’ abilities and let them take some of the load off your shoulders.

Fun Twist: Make delegation a family affair. Turn chores into a family competition with rewards for the best-completed task. Who said doing the dishes couldn’t be fun?

3. The Power of No: Protect Your Energy

Saying “yes” to every request is like hitting the snooze button on your energy reserves—it feels good in the moment, but it drains you over time. Learning to say “no” is one of the most powerful tools in conserving your energy.

Practical Tip: The next time someone asks you to take on an extra task, pause and consider if it aligns with your priorities. If it doesn’t, politely decline or suggest an alternative. Remember, every “yes” to something is a “no” to something else, often your well-being.

Fun Twist: Practice saying “no” with style! Create a list of creative, yet polite, ways to say no. For example, “I’d love to help, but my superhero cape is at the dry cleaners,” or “I’m currently booked with some self-care.”

4. Embrace the Power of Rest: Recharge Regularly

Just like your phone needs to be recharged, so do you. Skimping on rest leads to diminished productivity, and that is the opposite of conserving energy.

Practical Tip: Schedule regular breaks throughout your day, and do not skimp on sleep. Even a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute breathing exercise can work wonders in recharging your mental and physical energy.

Fun Twist: Treat your breaks like mini-vacations. Grab a fancy drink, put on some music, and escape to a “vacation spot” in your mind. It could be a sunny beach or a cozy cabin in the mountains—your imagination takes you there in an instant!

5. Simplify, Simplify, Simplify: Streamline Your Life

Ever notice how clutter can drain your energy? The more things you must manage, the more mental load you carry. Simplifying your life can dramatically reduce undue labor.

Practical Tip: Start by decluttering one area of your life—whether it is your workspace, your closet, or your calendar. Keep only what adds value and joy to your life. Everything else is just noise.

Fun Twist: Make it a challenge! Pick one area to declutter and set a timer. See how much you can simplify in 15 minutes. Reward yourself with something fun afterward—you choose what delights you in that moment.

6. The Magic of Routine: Automate Your Success

Routines might sound boring, but they are your secret weapon for conserving energy. When you create a routine, you reduce the mental energy spent on decision-making.

Practical Tip: Establish a morning and evening routine that sets you up for success. In the morning, focus on activities that energize you. In the evening, wind down with rituals that help you relax and prepare for restful sleep.

Fun Twist: Personalize your routines with elements that make you smile—a favorite song, a comforting cup of tea, or even a few minutes of dance. Routines do not have to be rigid—they can be fun and flexible!

For Your Consideration:

Balancing your life and conserving energy does not mean doing nothing per se—it means doing what matters more efficiently and with more joy. By prioritizing, delegating, saying no, resting, simplifying, and establishing routines, you can create a life that is not only balanced but also fulfilling and fun.

Remember, the key to a happier, more balanced life is to preserve your energy for the things that truly matter—and to enjoy the moments along the way.

Okay, your turn:

When have you noticed yourself overly “efforting” recently, leaving yourself feeling drained and unfulfilled? What did you do to change it up?

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

Independence is a powerful concept, evoking images of freedom, self-reliance, and the ability to shape your destiny. Whether it is achieving financial independence, emotional autonomy, or breaking free from limiting beliefs, claiming your independence is a transformative journey.

Here is a guide to embarking on this empowering path:

1. Understand What Independence Means to You

Independence is subjective. For some, it might be about living alone and managing their finances. For others, it could involve making decisions without relying on others’ opinions or external approval. Reflect on what independence means to you personally. Define it clearly for you and your journey.

2. Assess Your Current Situation

Take an honest look at your current state. What areas of your life do you feel dependent on others or external factors? This could be financial dependence, emotional reliance, or even dependence on certain habits and routines. Identifying these areas is the first step toward addressing them.

3. Set Clear Goals

Once you have a clear understanding of what independence means to you and where you currently stand, set specific, achievable goals. These goals should be aligned with your vision of independence. For example, if financial independence is your aim, a goal could be to save a certain amount of money or reduce debt by a specific percentage, and by a certain date.

4. Educate Yourself and Always Be Learning

Knowledge is a powerful tool in claiming your independence. If your goal is financial independence, educate yourself on personal finance, investment strategies, and budgeting. If emotional independence is your focus, learn about self-care practices, emotional intelligence, and coping mechanisms. The more informed you are, the better equipped you will be to make decisions that support your independence.

5. Take Responsibility for Your Choices

Independence means owning your decisions, both the good and the bad. This involves:

  • Making informed choices
  • Accepting the consequences of your actions
  • Learning from your mistakes

6.  Develop a Support System

While independence implies self-reliance, having a support system is also helpful. Surround yourself with people who encourage and support your journey. This could be friends, family members, mentors or advisors, or even online communities. They can provide guidance, encouragement, and a safety net as you navigate your path to independence.

7. Take Concerted Action

Knowledge and planning are essential, but action is where the transformation happens. Start taking steps toward your goals, no matter how small they may seem. Each step forward is a move toward greater independence.

8. Build Resilience

The road to independence is rarely smooth. There will be challenges and obstacles along the way.

You may face:

  • Fear of failure
  • Uncertainty about the future
  • Pressure from others to conform

Remember, these challenges are normal and can be overcome with persistence and self-belief.

Building resilience is key to overcoming these hurdles. Cultivate a positive mindset, practice self-compassion, and develop problem-solving skills. Resilience will help you stay committed to your path, particularly when things get tough.

9. Reevaluate and Adjust

Your goals and circumstances may change over time, and that is okay. Regularly reevaluate your progress and adjust your plans as needed. Independence is not a static state but a dynamic process. Being flexible and adaptable will help you stay aligned with your evolving vision of independence.

Celebrate!

Finally, take the time to celebrate your achievements. Acknowledge the effort, dedication, and growth that have brought you to this point. Celebrating your independence reinforces the positive changes you have already made and motivates you to continue your growth.

For your consideration:

Take a moment to reflect on your own journey. What steps can you take today to claim your independence and live life on your terms? The path may not always be easy, but the rewards of personal freedom and self-realization are immeasurable. Here’s to your independence!

Okay, your turn:

Where in your life do you feel your independence has served you well, and in what ways have you made the most of it? Does your independence ever get in the way of what you would like to bring into your life? If so, what steps have you taken to move past the roadblocks?

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

As the ‘longest’ day of the year, the Summer Solstice is a time of abundant sunlight and warmth, offering a perfect opportunity for reflection and rejuvenation. This annual event, occurring this year on June 20th in the Northern hemisphere, symbolizes not only a peak in daylight but also a peak in our own personal energies and potential.

Strength of the Summer Solstice

The Summer Solstice has been celebrated for centuries across various cultures, marking a time of fertility, growth, and renewal. It is a day when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, casting the longest shadows and reminding us of the power and vitality of light. This day invites us to soak in the solar energy, embrace the warmth, and ignite our inner fire to pursue passions and goals.

Here are some ways to maximize your experience during the Summer Solstice:

  1. Reconnect with Nature: Spend time outdoors, whether it is hiking, gardening, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park. Nature has a way of grounding us and providing a fresh perspective on life.
  2. Engage in Creative Pursuits: Use the extra daylight to explore creative hobbies such as painting, writing, or playing music. Creativity can be a powerful outlet for expressing your innermost thoughts and feelings.
  3. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude: Take a moment to reflect on what you are grateful for. Mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga can help you stay present and appreciate the beauty of the moment.
  4. Connect with Loved Ones: Strengthen relationships by spending quality time with family and friends. Host a solstice gathering or a bonfire to celebrate the day together.
  5. Pursue Personal Goals: Reignite your passion for personal projects or set new goals. The solstice is an excellent time to tap into your ambitions and take actionable steps towards achieving them.

For your consideration:

The Summer Solstice is more than a seasonal event; it is a powerful reminder of the light and potential within us. By embracing this time to reconnect with nature, pursue passions, and reflect on your journey, you can bask in the light that burns from above and from within your spirit. I invite you to harness the strength of this potent time to live life to the fullest as you make an inventory and assessment at this energetically highest peak of the year.

Here’s how you can make the most of this reflective period:

  • Review Your Aspirations: Reflect on the aspirations you set at the beginning of the year. What have you accomplished? What needs more attention? Adjust your plans as necessary to stay on track.
  • Evaluate Your Well-being: Consider your physical, emotional, and mental health. Are you taking care of yourself? Identify areas where you might need to focus more energy, such as exercise, diet, or mental health practices.
  • Reflect on What You have Learned: Celebrate your progress, and acknowledge the lessons you’ve learned. Understanding what worked well and what did not can guide you in making better decisions moving forward.
  • Set New Intentions: The halfway point of the year is a great time to set new intentions. What do you want to achieve in the coming months? Write down your intentions and make a plan to pursue them.
  • Recenter Yourself: Strive for a centered life. Ensure that your personal, professional, and social aspects are harmoniously aligned. This fosters overall well-being and sustained success.

Okay, your turn:

What will you be doing this upcoming Solstice? I’ll be noticing the light as it brightens my steps that carry me through the wilderness.

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

Throughout our lives, desire acts as a powerful force, as we infuse our goals with meaning and purpose. Our innate protection mechanisms often stand as barriers, though, hindering our progress and holding us back. How can we integrate effectively these contrasting forces and still move forward successfully? Let us delve into this interplay.

Desire for Success: A Motivational Engine

Desire serves as the fuel that ignites our ambitions, pushing us beyond our comfort zones towards greater growth. Whether it is professional advancement, personal development, or nurturing relationships, our desires are deeply rooted within us. Desire motivates action, fosters resilience, and shapes our visions for a brighter future.

We need more than desire alone to receive success. Strategic planning, perseverance, and taking inspired action steps help us to overcome obstacles along the way.

Protection Mechanisms: Navigating Self-Preservation

In a push-pull relationship with our aspirations, our psyche comes equipped with protective mechanisms aimed at safeguarding our well-being. These mechanisms, ingrained through evolution, manifest as fear of failure, self-doubt, or reluctance to step beyond what is comfortable. While essential for survival, they can also inhibit growth and progress.

Acknowledging these protective instincts is crucial. Awareness allows us to recognize when these safeguards get triggered and yet all the while appreciating their underlying motives.

Achieving Integration: Finding the Balance

To integrate desire and protection effectively, several steps can be taken:

  1. Awareness: Recognize when protective mechanisms are at play and understand their root causes. This awareness empowers us to confront and transcend these barriers.
  2. Be Thankful for the Fear: Rather than allowing fear to paralyze us, view it as a natural response to the unknown. Use fear as a motivator for growth and resilience.
  3. Practice Self-Compassion: Success often involves setbacks. Cultivate self-compassion to navigate challenges with grace and learn from experiences.
  4. Allow Vulnerability: Stepping into vulnerability opens doors to new opportunities. Take risks, acknowledge mistakes, and seek support when needed.

For your consideration:

Visualize it all working out plus visualize yourself taking the incremental steps to get you there. As with a GPS, allow it to be a navigational tool – guiding you turn by turn, toward your intended destination. It is both the journey and the destination that matters. And, remember to leave room for fluidity, for adjustments, if and as conditions change – you always reserve the right to make course corrections.

Living by design, with intention, focused and at ease, can be immensely satisfying.

In the intricate weave of life, balancing our desire for success with our inherent protective instincts is an essential skill. And, it is one that you can cultivate at will. By integrating these contrasting forces, we unlock our full potential and move forward with self-assurance.

Success is not just about reaching goals; it is about embracing the journey with courage and determination. I invite us all to navigate this delicate path with resilience and purpose, moving closer to our aspirations while remaining grateful for the guardrails that aim to keep us from harm.

Okay, your turn:

When have you found yourself fulfilling your aspirations consciously, and doing so despite the fears that inevitably arise when you are taking on a new challenge?

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

Flow state

Organic ebb and flow

each in sway

Intuition guides our way.

As flowing currents whisper secrets,

within rhythms unseen,

Energy pulses through everything

In the union of intuition and flow, we are free to go

Into the inner sanctums

Where intuition sharpens our solutions

Connected to action, where plans abide.

Flow state fuels the steam,

Unleashing potential, fulfilling our dream.

Energy surges in every task we do,

A fuel for progress, tried and true.

In moments of focus, we harness the force,

Achieving our goals, on our chosen course.

Evolution’s path leads us to innovate,

Nudging us forward, to navigate.

For in the fusion of intuition and flow,

We unlock the keys to success and grow

Stagnant waters breed decay,

A lack of movement in disarray,

Life thrives where currents run,

In the dance of waves beneath the sun.

Okay, your turn:

When do you feel most in synch, most in flow? How do you know when you’ve hit your stride?

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.

New beginnings

A whisper in the wind

A blank page untouched by time

In the sliver of dawn

Where shadows fall back behind

The horizon line

Faith blooms anew

In the silent space

A promise of what may yet unfold

Among the secrets

Still untold

Like dewdrops on petals

In soft morning light

A dance of potential

With a wiggle of might

New beginnings

Like a canvas wide

Invite us to paint a journey

Much obliged

For in the beat

Between breaths and sighs

Is where the magic quietly resides

Okay, your turn:

New beginnings…love ‘em or dread ‘em? Does it depend? If so, in what ways?

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.

Transition of power

Transition of power

Power through

the transition of power

with transitive properties

 

Moving from one phase

to another

From one hand

to another

 

Amidst

the mist

of misty

eyed

mystics

 

Among

the shadows

and the light

of the waiting

and the wading

 

In pools

of disappointment

only to be moved

to movement

and action

 

Proceeding

to lead

by

example

 Okay, your turn:

Is there something about a major transition that leaves you feeling disappointed? Or, do big transitions instead leave you feeling hopeful, inspired, and eager to move forward?

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

© 2020 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.

It is a matter of what matters

Isn’t it?

Don’t you think?

Actually,

don’t.

Don’t you,

think.

 

Don’t think

Instead, feel

into what

matters.

 

What matters to you, to your soul?

A few things that matter to me:

 

In addition to money as currency

(not to be confused with ‘currentness,’ which is something different, altogether)…

 

Love as currency

Caring as currency

Compassion

Respect

Understanding

Empathy

Oneness

Wholeness

 

The sustainability of each of us

And the planet

Depends on it

On us.

 

What matters to you?

Does it matter?

Yes.

It matters

No matter

what.

For your consideration:

Set a countdown clock on your phone or computer, for a quick 11 seconds.  Without thinking, blurt out (and write down on a piece of paper), the first three things that matter to you. They can be lofty or grounded, simple or complex.  No editing allowed. No filtering. No worrying about what others’ opinions may be. This exercise is for your eyes and heart only.

Repeat this process as many times as your heart desires.  By the end of the day, take the entire list or sets of lists (remember, no editing), and put the paper under your pillow and sleep on it. Dream on it.

The next morning (again without thinking, without editing), jot down anything that arose for you since the previous day.  Anything new that you discovered really matters to you?  Anything that really doesn’t matter to you, after all?

On each new moon, if you so desire, revisit your list and see what still matters.

Okay, your turn:

Have you really felt into what matters to you?  If not, why not?  If so, what has been revealed?  Anything surprising? Anything unusual? Anything you’d like to reprioritize?

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

© 2020 Lori A. Noonan. All Rights Reserved.