Embrace the In-Between Time
It's a weird time of year. Although the heat continues, the summer recess that many people enjoy often gives way to restlessness. It's a transition period as we wash the sand between our toes and slip back into our socks and shoes. Partly, we want the relaxation of the season to continue a while longer, yet we also yearn for things to return to "normal." Brisk air, turning leaves, kids back to school, new projects, and preparation for the fourth quarter; the hours before Labor Day weekend create that tension.
Whether you're raring to roll up your sleeves and tackle something new or longing to keep your pant legs rolled up for another week of vacation, make the time to work on your "REs." The first is Reflection. Here are some others to consider.
Reevaluate your goals, your progress, and your beliefs. Ponder each to ensure you act authentically and still believe what you tell people.
Renegotiate contracts that no longer work for you. People's expectations change over time. There's nothing wrong with that; it exemplifies flexibility. So does collaborating to review the terms of long-standing agreements you have in place.
Repair things that are broken. Spend time cleaning up the little annoyances of your life. Fix the squeaky door or a leaky faucet, or organize an out-of-control junk drawer. This applies to relationships, too. Everyone has a friendship that's been neglected, even with all the social media tools available. Forgive, forget, or apologize, and send them a thoughtful card.
Rejuvenate. You may have had a vacation that did the trick, or maybe you feel like you need a vacation from your vacation. Get to the place that energizes you and just be there and enjoy it, even if it's only in your mind for twenty minutes or so.
Renew. Decide what you want to keep in your life and physically or metaphorically dust them off. Put them on a different shelf so they stand out. Make them appear new so you can appreciate them again.
Reapply. Did you fail at something recently? Does that mean you should quit? Take a different approach, or show your grit and try again.
As we grow anxious to start new projects, we tend to neglect what we have for things we want. This can involve a lot of daydreaming, wishing, and longing. Sometimes, this causes the complete abandonment of one goal in pursuit of another, and then another, and then another. Reexamine how you are living your life. You may determine you're good to go and wouldn't change a thing, or you may uncover a clue to greater success. Either way, look, otherwise you will never know.
Lead On Purpose
REIGNITE YOUR MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES
https://www.bimshasconsulting.com/leadonpurpose/
About Karl Bimshas
Karl Bimshas is a Boston-bred, California-chilled Leadership Consultant and Writer. As the founder of Karl Bimshas Consulting, he provides customized leadership development resources and accountability partnering for busy professionals who want to manage better and lead well.