January, 2024 Newsletter

Have calendars been the bane of your existence? They have been mine since I became an adult! I remember reading First Things First, one of many Stephen Covey books that tried to help me with time management. Stephen Covey was a New York Times bestselling author and the creator of DayTimers (Pictured below). This prevalent calendar system was essential before personal computers and cell phones. 

Thinking about that thick leather book, each section stuffed with papers that made the wide strap almost impossible to close, I was transported to a space where I spent time figuring out what, when, and how I would accomplish the tasks in my life. It was customary then to ‘plan my day, week, or month.’ Getting together and making plans with family and friends was the norm. These conversations might happen over a meal. I am marveling at the courage of my introverted self to say, “Hey, did you see that there is a new exhibit at the museum? Do you have time?” Regardless of the response, people knew I wanted to go. Family and friends being supportive created invisible opportunities through our shared connections, which might have sounded like, “I can’t go, but do you know who does want to go?” Or “Oh my gosh, my friend, you don’t know her, but I will introduce you to her; she wants to go. We can all go together! It will be fun.”

January is the month when I figure out my time. I look at the next 6 to 12 months and try to decide when, where, and what I want to do personally and professionally. I schedule retreats, conferences, and vacations.  I push my introverted self to be out more and make more in-person connections, as I am not reliably on social media. If you are also mapping out your year, here are some resources to pencil into your calendar.

Coming: April 10 and 17, 2024! Mindful Eating and Motivational Interviewing program via The Center for Mindful Eating.

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