What Did You Learn This Summer?

I have always loved this time of year. There is something so exciting about going back to school. When I was a kid I loved going to the store to get new supplies and even as a mother I could't wait to take my little guys to stock up on pens, paper and folders. 

Every year when I say goodbye to my boys and send them off for another year, I feel like it is the beginning of my new year too. 

My boys on the first day of school

So many of the women I work with are mothers. They are go-getters. They push and plan and get things done. It's often about this time that they are feeling drained and a bit deflated. The summer flew by and they feel like they didn't get everything done they wanted to accomplish. 

As their coach I tap into what they are feeling and I help them make adjustments. I ask questions...lots and lots of questions...

• What worked for you this summer?
• What didn't work?
• What would you like to spend more time doing?
• What would you like to spend less time doing?
• What is one thing you could do different next summer?

And then do you know what I have them do? I have them go into their electronic calendar and go forward to the beginning of summer next year. I have them write themselves a note with all of the important things they learned this year so they will be reminded next year. 

I do this for myself all the time. I have learned to embrace technology and make it my friend. I always think I will remember these great things I learn but I never do so why not use my calendar? It's like having my own personal assistant to help me stay focused on what is important to me. 

So often we forget that our year ebbs and flows. We want to continue doing everything the same way throughout the year and yet it really doesn't work. Our energy shifts and changes and the more we can pay attention to the changes the sooner we can honor ourselves and create a sustainable lifestyle. 

I personally take it easy during the summer. I spend so much time with my family I don't have as much time to blog, create and coach. I used to try to fight it and life felt so stressful. Now I embrace it and I plan for it and let me tell you when those kids go back to school my creative juices are flowing.

 

I have so much energy to paint and write. I have new ideas flowing and it feels so good. I have learned to work with my lifestyle. 

So what did you learn this summer that will help you next summer?