I don’t know about you, but we are fast approaching my FAVORITE time of year, and I’m filled with excitement for the fresh opportunities this next season brings.💥

September always feels like a new beginning and this year, with everything going on all around us, my theme is to Simplify September. Before we just charge into that normal hustle routine after summer, (and even if you have already! 🤪) Here are the top 3 ways I’m doing just that…

1.Reflect on your broader vision 

Evaluate your personal and professional goals. Have your objectives shifted over the past months? Are they still aligned with your true desires and the needs of your business & clients? Take a moment to adjust your plans if necessary, and think about the possibilities. 

A great way to do this is to set up a quiet retreat. Even an hour away from screens and distractions can help you tune in to your truth.

Try a walk in nature, a cozy spot in a café, or a quiet corner at home with your favorite beverage. Reflect on:

✨What would a HAPPY NEW YEAR really look and feel like for you?  

Once you do a little reflection and assessing,

2. Get clear on the #1 focus for your business and life over the next 90 days. 

What is the most important for you in this season? For YOU, your family and your business?

It can’t be everything, all at once! Instead of overloading yourself and your schedule for the rest of the year, be selective so that you can bring your fullest attention and energy to each person, project or event. 

I know this can be hard. Let me share a system I dive into in my book, Unleash your CEO Mama, that helps squash people pleasing and overcommitment. 

💎First, avoid impulsively saying “YES!” to every opportunity or when asked for your time, energy, effort, or resources. Instead, pause for a moment and consider your VIPS and/or a response. Then say, “Oh wow, thank you so much for thinking of me. I need to look at my schedule and get back to you tomorrow.”

💎As you are rolling a decision around in your head and heart, put it through the following “Knowing Filters”:
 

⚡️How did my body and mind react initially?  
⚡️Is this something I’m excited about or need to make time for, or does it make me cringe and feel drained? 
⚡️Will this create more chaos or more calm & joy in my life? 
⚡️If I say yes, what will suffer or be pushed aside? 

 💎 These filters will help you determine if the decision is the best one for you right now or if you need to decline. “Know” may = “No.” ;)

✨How can you give yourself the gift of more peace and freedom while you give others the gift of your true presence? 

3. Make space for connection & joy 

Tis’ the season for connecting, gathering, giving, and fun! Let’s make it feel that way, too. Once you reflect on your vision and get clear on your laser focus, how can you make room for more connection & joy? Focus on presence, not perfection. 

 💎 If an invitation or obligation doesn’t fit your focus for the season, give yourself permission to gracefully decline. 

 💎 Create small rituals to connect. Light a candle at dinner, share a daily gratitude moment, or take five minutes at dinner or before bed to recap the day with loved ones or with you and your journal.

 💎 Start a simple giving tradition. Deliver homemade treats to neighbors, gather for a potluck or write heartfelt notes to people who made a difference in your year. Small gestures often mean the most.

These practices have been amazing for me and can help you reconnect and create meaningful moments for you and those you love & lead.

✨How can I nurture myself and my best relationships now? 

As you move through this September and beyond, remember you don’t have to take it all on. It doesn’t have to feel constricted, overwhelming & out of control. By reflecting on what matters now, focusing on your few, true priorities, and making space for meaningful moments, you set yourself up for a season of clarity, growth, connection, and joy.