September One Word Challenge: Designate

Happy September, Y'all!

Ok, so summer's nearly over (is over for all practical purposes) and what's so happy about that?  Some great things are on tap for the fall, that's what!

This new professional experiment I'm working on has been going for about 8 months now. I'm learning a ton about myself, how I contribute, opportunities that lie ahead, how self improvement and training never go away, how difficult time management can be if you lose your focus, and how amazing it is to have choices.

Having choices is what has lead me to this month's word: DESIGNATE.

Definition of designate

transitive verb

1: to indicate and set apart for a specific purpose, office, or dutydesignate a group to prepare a plan

I LOVE the purpose and intention behind this word. Sure, we all make choices every day, but do we make those choices with intent and purpose? Do we make those choices because it's what we've always done? Can we separate our emotional connection from those choices?

This is where I am in my journey. It's time to look at "what I've always done" and designate where my energy, time and attention are going. Making decisions on how to spend my time has come to asking: What are the benefits of activity? Is this a revenue generating activity? and Why do I love this activity?

No - everything doesn't have to be a revenue generating activity - but that's a very important question to ask when you are self employed. ;)

If it's not generating revenue, is it:

• building my network
• sharpening my skills
• bringing me joy
• part of my self care
• helping others

If the answer isn't one of the above - should I continue to invest my time and effort into it?

The short answer to that long question is NO. Bonus points if any activity covers more than one of those areas!

I'm working to apply these things to my daily activities, not just large events and activities outside of my home. Less time scrolling and more time reading about things that will help move me forward in life, business, and strong sense of self.  I'm even utilizing time while walking my dogs to listen to audio books and podcasts that get me thinking and inspire me to be the  most awesome version of myself (I'd love your recommendations for both - books and podcasts as I'm just starting my library!). 

More time doing things with family and friends - experiences that I'll look back on and feel that joy again!

I'm at the stage in life where DESIGNATING - choosing with purpose - is the key to living my best, authentic life. I'm getting away from the 'should' and piles of expectations, and focusing on who I am and how I want to grow. 

How do you live your best life? Do you leave choices to chance or do you have a system to DESIGNATE your next move?

I'd love to hear about your system for choosing (eeny-meenie-miney-mo?), your favorite pod casts, and the activities that are bringing you the most joy!

Ciao for now, friends!
<3 Jen