Get Your Mind Right - Reset to March Forward in a Positive Direction!

Here we are, just about half-way through the month, on Pi Day!

Today I had plans, weather changed those plans, decided to treat myself, came home to a broken garage door and a section of fence blown down. Flooding, crazy wind, mud everywhere. I was feeling the frustration build and I had to stop and reset. Sometimes you need to MARCH - actively move forward in a positive direction.

So, I'm listening to a pod cast about positivity, I'm going to work on my vision board and my MARCH One Word project. Then, I'm going to go to the grocery store for some healthy foods and ingredients for my Pi Day treat. Then, I'll revisit my business to-do list.

I have to get my mind right!

What are some of your favorite 'reset' buttons? Here are a few of mine:

Play with the pups. - If it were nicer today, we would be clicking on the harnesses and heading out for Patrol. Physical activity, fresh air, and my fur buddies always helps me find the positives!

Laugh at funny memes. - Yes, your favorite cat memes, silly memes, bad lip reading, whatever you're in to, can help remind you to laugh, to smile and to let go what has tilted your attitude to the negative and frustrated side.

Get sweaty. - There are lots of way to get sweaty - dancing, getting a tough workout in, doing yard work, getting freaky with your partner, all are great ways to boost those feel good chemicals in your brain and lift your spirits. There are so many benefits to your body and mind, this is one of my all time favorite 'reset buttons!'

Meditate. - I've got a fantastic app that I use, and most of the guided meditations are 10-15 minutes long. That's just long enough to get a good reset going - focus on breathing, and gratitude, and feel more settled and ready to march forward! You can check out the app I use here.

Listen to your favorite song. - We all have a song that makes us smile. Classical, hip hop, pop, country, indie rock, alternative, polka... cue that song up and play it loud! Sing it, dance, toe tap or just close your eyes and let it wash over you.  My current reset song is  Good, by Twin XL. That dang whistle just makes me smile! (It also gets stuck in my head!)

Listen to an audio book or podcast. - I just finished Michelle Obama's book, Becoming and Girl, Wash Your Face, by Rachel Hollis. Both are fantastic reminders of how we CAN overcome challenges in our lives through a positive outlook, hard work, some patience and some self love. I like to listen while I walk, drive long distances, clean the house or do the dishes.

Put away the tech. - Ya, this is a tough one for some of us, but a necessary reset. Put your phone on airplane mode (or turn it off all together), close the lap top, turn off the TV. By simply removing that stimuli, you may feel your nerves sooth and your attitude mellow.

Bake. - I love to bake. There's something soothing about measuring, mixing and timing. Baking has a rhythm, a reason, and an order. I follow recipes, embellishing or substituting occasionally, but within the parameters of the tried and true. And, as many of you have heard before, my love language is FOOD. I enjoy making treats for those I love.

Take the time to do nothing. - There are days in the summer and fall, where I just need to sit. I pull up a chair by the fire pit, no music or books, just me and my thoughts and a fire. Listening to the sounds of the wind, the crackle of the fire, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face, or the cool breeze on my skin, the feel of crushed limestone under my feet. This is like meditation, but less structured.

Get out of town. - Sometimes you need a hard reset, a change of scenery, schedule, and maybe people. My family's go to is get-a-ways that involve mountains and hiking. I am better when I'm in nature. But I also enjoy tacking on a day or two when I travel for events to explore the cities I'm in and appreciate the unique activities and scenery they offer!

That's my short list of favorites - did any of them show up on your list, too? I'd love to hear about which ones did - and even hear about some that I didn't list that you love!

Resets are necessary. Success isn't a straight line from start to finish. We have ups and downs, and wrong turns and course corrections. I'm learning ways to help get back on track towards my goals and dreams.

The break has done wonders for my attitude today, and I'm ready to MARCH on with the rest of my afternoon and evening.

Until next time...

Ciao for now!

~jen

Let's MARCH.

I can't believe it's already March 2019!

Despite the prolonged snow and cold here at home, time still seems to fly!  Moving ahead with my One Word challenge, I've been brainstorming words that have come up in my meditations, in my reading and research, or in my action plan. What I've decided on seems simple (and cheesy) enough for me...  it is time to MARCH!

Wait, really? MARCH in March?

YES!

I plan to MARCH forward. It's time to follow the path I've set for myself when I decided to LEAP and ENGAGE. Moving forward with the pieces that are in place right now will help me find where the gaps are and where my challenges may come up, but I will be progressing all the while.

Marching isn't the fastest way to get somewhere - it's often slow, deliberate and measured. But it's consistent, and purposeful. And that's where I need to be right now. I need to build on what I've done, and continue forward. Progress, not perfection. Forward, but not in a hurry.

The month of March is usually about the time I get fed up with winter, can't seem to stay motivated, cave into my cravings (damn the Girl Scouts and their tasty cookies!) and have a tendency to take a step back in progress I've made.


Well, friends, not this year!  I'm here to MARCH forward, to make solid choices that support my goals, to be measured and deliberate in my actions. 

Throughout the month I'll be sharing how MARCH has shaped my intentions, actions and ultimately my results, so stay tuned for that. What is your One Word Challenge for the month? How have you been implementing the challenge into your overall goals? I'd love for you to share and we can help encourage one another!

My Craft project for ENGAGE didn't turn out quite as I'd hoped, but the process provided insight on how to improve. I'll be coming up with something special (and different) for MARCH, so hang tight for that to come, too.

Ciao for now,

Jen

Daily Ways to ENGAGE

During a very snowy and cold week, the last one in this ENGAGE month, I was thinking about how engaged I really am in my life. This month I've come up with a few tasks that I'm working on, or have implemented, to really connect and ENGAGE every day.
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

How Do You ENGAGE to accomplish your GOALS?

Hello Friends!

It's a beautiful (read: cold, blustery, snow covered) day!  I started out dark and early, taught 2 classes (Cycle & TRX and Mobility), got my own yoga practice in (can you say TIGHT hips?) and continued with my daily meditation practice.  I'm home now, snuggled in with hot Chai tea and cozy leggings and sweater.

Now what?

TIME to ENGAGE, DUH!

Today's task is to set small goals. These are the beginning steps that will help me achieve my larger targets.  I'm a list maker and need to have structure and a schedule to stay on task, especially when there are multiple paths moving forward at the same time. I'm also a visual person, so charts, vision boards and post-its are king! So, considering each large goal, what are the stepping stones  (there may be a hundred!) to get there?


Staying engaged for me is taking time and care in the little steps, appreciating the importance of building a foundation for success and moving forward when steps are complete. Not only does it keep me present (which is something I'm working on!) - it also allows me to recognize the steps where I may need help. Maybe I need to make a contact or network in order to move forward. Maybe I need help with tech. Maybe I need to read and research to make a decision.  Maybe I need to switch it up and try something else because I've been on the wrong track (happens to the best of us).  Engagement isn't just actively working on a project (or projects). It's also visualizing, dreaming, getting excited about possibilities, and sharing that vision with others. It is being mentally, emotionally, and physically invested in that which I have set out to complete. It's breathing life into what breathes life into me.

Some small goals I've completed this week include setting meetings and calls for projects or events I'm working toward, following up on previous contacts who are potential teammates and customers, reading and researching, daily writing (just to get in the habit) and working on content for my online presence (coming soon!), keeping my space tidy so I don't feel over whelmed, and moving my body so that my mind can be settled.

When you're working on a project - what are some of the tools you use to get organized and stay focused and engaged?  I'd love to hear about them - let's share and maybe we'll both be more productive!

Today it is my hope that you take a step, ANY step, to reach your goals!  Cheers to making this life the life you love, one step at a time!

Ciao for now!

~jen

One Word Challenge - February 2019: ENGAGE

How is it already February 1st? I mean, I feel like I just started really dialing into LEAP, I've leapt into new environments, new partnerships, a new schedule, and so far, so good!

Thanks to  my pal Karla for finding this
graphic for me. Truly it's been my motto
for the month of January!

I've enjoyed the process of saying to myself, "it's going to be fine, risk is part of the plan. Some folks will say 'no', but don't let that discourage you."  Coming from a lifetime people pleaser, wouldn't it just be easier to be what everyone else needs? No. No it wouldn't. The time is now. Leap, dammit. LEAP! 

So, I've leapt. 

Shit. Now what?

Well, the ball is rolling. While leaping in January (and I will continue to leap forward beyond January!) I've made some valuable connections, put systems in place, and started working on forward progress. 

The next step is to ...

                                   ...  ENGAGE!


Maybe you're a Star Trek nerd like me. If so, come with me on this thought...

You know when the Captain Picard says, "ENGAGE," they'd laid a course, they already discussed where they were going and why, they'd talked about challenges they may face. The Captain listened, processed and decided it was time to act. He'd given orders, but now it was time to  ENGAGE.  And no one questioned him after that order. Hold on tight. We're goin' in.


Here's the Merriam Webster definition:

engage

 verb

en·​gage | \ in-ˈgāj  , en-\  engaged; engaging 

intransitive verb

1a: to pledge oneself : PROMISE

b: to make a guaranteehe engages for the honesty of his brother

2a: to begin and carry on an enterprise or activity —used with inengaged in trade for many years

b: to do or take part in something —used with inengage in healthy activitiesengage in bad conduct

c: to give attention to something : DEALfailing to engage with the problem

3: to enter into conflict or battle

4: to come together and interlockthe gears engaged

Wow... that's a lot of information. But I find it so interesting how a word can embody all of these aspects. In this way, ENGAGE is really quite perfect for me.  Here's how I relate:

I want to pledge to myself to put in the work, to not give up on myself.

I want to make a guarantee to myself and my family that I'm working for our best future.

I want to be active in an enterprise of health, wellness and community support through event management.

I want to take part in my life actively, not as a bystander waiting to see what's going to come my way.  Some of you may have seen my shoulder tat that translates to 'If the wind doesn't serve, take to the oars."  It's time to start rowing!

I want to give my attention to the areas of my life I've deemed most important.

I anticipate that there will be conflict, battles even, and I'm ready to engage those challenges with vigor and vim!

It's time for the gears to interlock, friends! It's time for everything in my life to work together towards common goals, and not in opposition of one another.

ENGAGE is really growing on me. I mean, it's like a One Word Mission Statement!

While I continue to work towards (ENGAGE) my goals this month, I'll share with you how this One Word continues to inspire action and attitude.

How's your One Word challenge going?  Have you chosen a new word for February? Or will you have the same word all year? I'd love to hear your prospective on your word, or mine!

Life's short, friends. Isn't it time we all ENGAGED?!

Ciao for now!
~Jen

Leaping and My Why

Greetings Friends!

It's a beautiful day in some one's neighborhood! It's frigid and only getting colder here at home. But the sun is out, I've put on my "productive pants" today, and decided to spend a little time meditating on "leap" and how it will (and has) evolved over the last 3+ weeks, and how it will transition into the months to come.

"Leap" is the action that has followed a long time introspection on my Why. 
My Why is simple. To help myself, my family and others live their healthiest and happiest lives.  The details of the How and What have changed over the years, depending on my particular set of circumstances at the time, but the why has been constant. 

I know that I can't take good care of others if I've neglected myself. I learned this lesson from my mother, who over the years always worked, sometimes two jobs, always made sure we were provided for, made dinner, taught us the value of hard work, and so many other valuable lessons. But here's the thing...I don't remember many times when she did for herself. He glass was empty. Everyone and everything wanted/needed something. The most self-loving thing I can remember her doing when I was growing up was sneaking time to read occasionally, or have an entire sleeve of girl scout cookies to herself. She was tired, stressed and trying to hold a blended family together on a tight budget while dealing with the things all families struggle with and a few things extra piled on. I saw her struggle with all of it.

It's hard to look back and realize that someone I love needed more, from me and others, and I was oblivious to how I could help or encourage her to do for herself instead of trying to keep up with the never ending to-do for others list. Sure, she found happiness in the little things, and later in life through an extended family and some travel, but I could see, deep down, that nothing had changed with how she valued her own care and keeping.

When I lost my mom in 2017 to Cancer, I struggled with (and continue to struggle - pay no attention to the tears in my eyes as I type this) the grief of knowing that her whole life, she tried to pour from an empty cup. During the toughest time in her life, she couldn't let go and relax and had trouble asking for and receiving help. Would her treatment have had a different result? Who knows. But it weighs on my mind.

Learning the lesson of self care and happiness in reverse has affected my career path. From retail to non-profit, corporate America, local small business, and now freelance/contractor, I've found that the What has changed over the years, and as I've gained skills and knowledge the How has evolved, but the Why has endured.

I'm happiest with friends and family, being healthy, active and outdoors, using my organizational skills and analytical thinking to find the best practice in all areas of my life, and helping others reach their goals.

Leap has led me to putting the Why first and the How into action. The What in January has been diverse!  I've been in the gym coaching and building strength in myself and others, online and in person nutritional coaching, and traveling to events where people have set a goal of completing a race (half marathon, full marathon) and I'm able to support them through organizational on site work.

I am in a position to learn more about myself and the risks I'm willing to take to find and prioritize my happiest self.  Long term vision weighs heavier than short term challenges.  Happiness is the goal and Happy is who I want to be when I grow up.

I started with a Leap, but you ain't seen nothin' yet!

I'd love to know how your One Word for January has been guiding you! Or, how LEAP has inspired you!  Leave a comment or find me on the socials!

Ciao for now!
Jen

SAY YES to the LEAP!

Here I am, a whole 11 days into this new "me" thingy. After a super early day at the gym with classes and clients (my part time gig),  I'm in ath-leisure apparel (duh), have just walked my pups the extra long route, am sipping a delicious Mint Chocolate protein shake for lunch (ala Isagenix, yes I use a mason jar for my shakes. It's just easy and pretty!) and have thought about this week and the immediate changes in my life - the ways in which I have chosen to LEAP.

I don't have a full time job. (GASP!) Oh, I could get one, or have kept one, or whatever. But the fact remains that I need to get something DONE in order to support my share of the family budget. That FREAKS. ME. OUT. What if I fail. What if I suck. What if I don't finish everything on the to-do list. What if I can't get to where I want to go professionally? What if my book sucks? What if, what if, what if? I've always been mostly risk adverse. Take the safe road, get the desk job, get the homework done, don't procrastinate, don't rock the boat.

Man, this boat is rockin' in 2019!

Through my work with various events, talking with friends, networking, and a glowing recommendation from a dear friend, an opportunity has presented itself to me - I've been asked to take a role with a large race in Texas. The voice in my head says, WHOA - you're not ready!
A louder voice:
SAY YES. 

It's really far away and you've never been there.
SAY YES.

You only know one soul in all of Austin.
SAY YES.

You are going to get lost.
SAY YES... and use GPS.

What if you fail?!
SAY YES and do your best. It's what got you the invite, isn't it?

Not only is this an opportunity for me to do what I love, and have been doing for 20+ years (event & volunteer management), but it's a chance to see a new city, to build new relationships, to prove myself against bigger challenges and struggles, to get lost, to try new food, to laugh, to be exhausted.

I said YES.  I am LEAPING. I'll be in Austin next weekend to meet the crew at a smaller race, and back again in February for the main event. I'm so excited (and nervous) I can hardly sit. I hope y'all will send me some positive vibes for a good first showing with this event.

Yes, I've already started with the "y'all"... I'm in trouble. ;)

Not to mention, isn't it flip-flop weather in Austin? That's something I can definitely SAY YES to.


Personally, another yes in my life was YES to sharing my health and wellness journey with my hubster and encouraging him to join me. He's a bit of a picky eater, and fitness has always been my thing, but I'm so proud of his efforts. He's been following the program I've set out for him, he's been walking with me and the pups, he even let me beat up on him in the gym yesterday (partner workout, static & active work). I can tell he's feeling better, he's looking great, and I'm just so stinkin' happy for him.  Did you know your body was meant to feel THIS good?! I mean, seriously! I'm so glad that he said YES!

I continue to offer what I'm experiencing through this product line to my friends and family, because I honestly love it. Because helping others, and feeding others, is what I do. Because it makes me smile to know that I've helped someone realize how good they are designed to feel.

{Pipe Dream: If I could work an event where I got to lead a boot camp style workout followed by whipping up delicious Isa Shakes for everyone before tackling race day activities or Expo shenanigans? WHOA NELLY! HEAVEN!}

For those of you who want to know more, I'd love to hear from you! Use the comments below, find me on Social Media, or check out the system HERE. 

Perhaps it's time for you to SAY YES to your health and wellness, too. ;)

I want to hear if you've been LEAPING, or how your One Word has been guiding your efforts to live your best life.  Won't you share with me?

Ciao for now,
Jen