Building daily habits is key for me - until I do it on repeat, it doesn't really stick. So - I've made notes in my planner and a commitment to myself to do the following, every day!
Reach Out. Pick up the phone, send the text, approach someone new. A smile and "hello" can open so many doors. I've set a target for the number of reaches per week.
Follow Up. I send myself messages, texts, and have post its all over my calendar. Following up is more than being engaged - it's showing people you care. Yes, I was listening, I didn't forget, you are important. It may also be showing yourself you care enough to go after that which is most important, and not giving up after the first try.
Dig In. Don't just show up - get into it! Get into the process, the information, the people on the team. Know names, understand the big picture even if your part is small. Understanding the machine will help you determine how your skills can make a better cog in that machine! If you observe a process that could be improved, share your feedback and ideas with the team. You may be responsible for improving the process and making the job better for everyone! We all benefit when we work smarter, not harder. So, go ahead and DIG IN!
Make Notes. I carry a notebook and pen everywhere. Or use my phone to make notes. Winning is in the details, so make note of those details.
Be Prepared. You're not going to fall into the next greatest job, project or whatever you're ENGAGING in. You have to prepare. Mentally - think through the process and be aware of potential challenges. Have the tools you need. Do the research. Ask questions. Look up best practice. Research takes time now, and saves time (and frustration!) later.
Be Mindful. This encompasses so many things! I've been using a guided meditation app to help me build my mindfulness practice. It's so helpful, but it really requires focus and patience. I'm not really a "sit still" kind of gal, and so being still for 10-15 minutes every day, focusing on breathing and being in the present is a challenge! I recommend Calm and 10% Happier - both have free guided meditations with the option for a subscription to gain access to more content. Often, there are local studios that offer mediation practice and workshops, so be sure to check around in your community for options. Or, just spend a few minutes focusing on easy breathing exercises, or tune into an intention or mantra. A few minutes can really impact your day.
Mindfulness doesn't have to mean meditation, though. Sitting down to have tea or breakfast, without music, TV or other noise has really been a great practice for me. Walking my pups without headphones in, just listening to the sounds around me, watching the pups, and focusing on how my body is feeling is a wonderful way to connect with myself, and engage mentally, physically and emotionally. I've had more than one day when I enjoyed a good ugly cry while walking the pups. Recognizing and acknowledging my thoughts and feelings have helped me process my way through some issues.
Put It Away. There are times when technology keeps us connected to projects, business and people, and that is a wonderful addition to life. And sometimes, it isn't. I'm working on blocking time when I can disconnect from my phone. Put on "do not disturb" and enjoy an afternoon with friends or family. Leave the cell phone in the car or your purse during a dinner out. Even when hiking or walking, I'll turn my phone to airplane mode and have it just in case. No alerts. No noise. Just me and whatever/whoever I'm there for.
Rest. I've really been listening to my body on this one. No longer one to brag about "I can get by on 5 hours of sleep" (yes, that was me!) - this girl needs 7.5 hours or MORE to be my best. Sure, I can function on less, but it's not (and can't be) my norm. Rest also applies to my time in the gym. I have in the not-so-distant past really over done it. Mornings and evenings, 5-6 days a week of full body and cardio. When I started feeling it catch up to me, I basically just fell off the wagon. I'm finding a better balance for me - 4 days of varied training, alternating with more forgiving long walks with my pups. Sure there's more I could do and when the weather gets nice, more outdoors things that will happen. After all, I'm training to love my life, not for a bikini contest. I want to be able to hike longer and higher, bike longer, play with my pups, party at a trampoline park, and move loads of dirt and mulch into my garden and flower beds without being sore or exhausted. I'm training for life, and in life, you need to rest to be your best!
What are some of the ways that you ENGAGE daily? Do you use an online community? Bullet journal? I'd love to hear about what is working for you!
I've got my February ENGAGE project drying in the garage - I'll post pics when it's ready. How do you keep your focus on your One Word? I like to have something in front of me, a visual reminder. LEAP is on the shelf above my office desk. Engage will be more, uh, mobile. Stay tuned to see!
Just 2 days until I reveal my March One Word! I'd love to hear about your projects and focuses. What tools do you use to find and develop your best habits? Leave a comment below, or hit me up on the socials!
Ciao for now!
Jen
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