For many of us, September generates feelings of a fresh start and new beginnings more than the new year. It can bring excitement and anticipation or an uncomfortable reminder that there are things you want to change.

Here are some actions that will spark your professional success and heighten personal satisfaction.

• Clean out your closets. Yes, really. Donate extra items to Goodwill, a shelter, or the Diabetes program. For bigger or more valuable items, sell or give them away on Kijiji, Varagesale or a similar platform. (We are hardwired somehow so that reducing our clutter and eliminating material things is a cathartic exercise. I cannot explain why but I know it to be true.)
• Reboot Your Brain. Complete this Brain Reboot exercise.
• Hone your skills. Most universities, colleges, and associations offer business courses and professional development from fall through late spring. Classes abound.
• Try meditation. Neuroscientists know that even 10 minutes of meditation provides benefit. Finding it hard to sit at your desk or on the couch and quiet your mind? We all do. That’s why apps like Headspace and Calm are so good.
• Set Do Not Disturb on your phone – starting at whatever time of the evening works best for you. You will be more present and your leisure time will be more gratifying. That email you just remembered? You will remember again tomorrow, I promise. If you don’t trust your memory, jot it down on a notepad.
• Stay away from the electronics for at least an hour before bed. The light emanating from our technology is detrimental to our sleep.
• Start a new hobby, return to one you used to enjoy or prepare for your winter passions such as skiing or a Spring triathlon by doing strength training or hiring a personal trainer. Learning a new instrument or language strengthens your cognitive processes. Horseback riding and ballet build your core and improve balance. Photography or canoeing can be joyful.
• Plan your vacation time. Pull out your calendar. Sit down with your family and plan your holidays for next year. They need not be extravagant. They may include long weekends or staycations, but plan them now and book them in. You are less likely to sacrifice family time and your clients, colleagues and/or employer will appreciate the advanced notice.

Whatever you choose, do something to monopolize on the new beginnings September brings; your personal and professional life will benefit.

My clients accelerate their results – increasing profitability, leadership performance, innovation, and accountability. I would love to discuss how I might contribute to your leadership brand. Contact me today.

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