I adore summer. But I seriously struggle to make the most of it. By the time Labor Day rolls around, I’m usually shell-shocked, wondering how the season flew by so fast. So, when I got an email from my dear friend and life coach Michelle Stimpson about helping clients plan their ideal summers, I jumped at the chance.
I wanted to be in a lovely space with a clear head before our phone session yesterday, so I drove to a nearby crabapple tree orchard and sat under one of the beautiful, pink flowering trees there. It was a little chillier than I expected, so my picnic blanket came in handy! It was the perfect setting – no distractions.
I will often set my intention and envision the best outcome for a specific situation, but it’s rare for me to take 30 minutes – or even three! – to create a vision for a whole season. So, my phone conversation with Michelle was a real treat. We talked through things that have felt overwhelming – hello, crazy schedules! – and she helped me imagine how I want to feel at the end of the summer: relaxed, fulfilled and overjoyed {my word of the year!}.
But then came the really critical piece: working backwards to make sure that outcome is possible. The steps to get there were easier than I expected. In the words of Steven Covey, the goal is to be proactive vs. reactive. Together, Michelle and I came up with easy ideas I could implement without feeling overwhelmed. Gaining that clarity was a huge relief.
I left that session – and that sweet crabapple tree – feeling so much more focused and intentional about making this a summer to remember. I’ll never ever again get to experience this particular summer, when my kids are precocious 8 and adorable 3, so I want to live it up and love each day. And then do the same next year and the year after that. Happily, now I think I know how.
So what about you? What do you intend to do and feel and experience this summer? I’d love to know!
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GUESS WHAT!? Michelle has graciously offered to extend her Best Summer Ever promotion through the end of the month. Full details are here in this email she sent to clients. Though the copy says her offer ends today, she’s actually allowing my readers to grab the deal anytime through Tuesday {May 31st}. Simply purchase your session and then Michelle will follow-up with you to schedule a call with you. Sweet!
Michelle also writes a great blog – Following Your Joy – and is one of the 12+ fabulous bloggers being interviewed for my e-course.
