Mindfulness Minute

The change of seasons is an invitation to examine the recurring feelings, thoughts and behaviors that define you. Keep what works and learn to change what isn't.

Some situations don't change no matter how much of ourselves we give or sacrifice. That's when we know it's time to stop putting energy into them.

Things look bleak but there's always a chance of hope.

It's not your fault the world is burning. You did everything you could. Even when you may not have realized it, you were working very hard. You are enough and always have been. Don't forget it.

Life is full of chronic problems that don't just "go away". This is why we have to continually honor our pain and engage in the personal practices that help us process it.

Gratitude is not just for good days. Always take a moment to pause, reflect and remember the beautiful moments, people and experiences you've had, especially when you are going through dark times.

Let moments of frustration be an opportunity for reflection on what triggers you, how these triggers affect you and how you can create more buffers for yourself.

We can't expect ourselves to immediately and instantly be resilient when we want to be. Resilience is an inner environment that takes years to cultivate.

The workplace is rife with disagreement and conflict, just like life itself. Don't let the disagreements you experience become burdens you carry with you everywhere. Let go of absolutely everything you can and save your energy for peace instead.

Always brainstorm how to adapt techniques from the past to today's unique environments.

Don't be afraid to contemplate other career paths and pivots. It might be exactly what you're looking for.

Volunteering is a meaningful and fulfilling way to expand personal and professional growth.

If we expect every day to be a good work day, we will be sorely disappointed. Instead - remember that there's only so many things you can control and that everything else is up to chance. 

After a stressful day, it can help to sit down, close your eyes and breathe in the quiet moment.

If you've ever had a day where you are exhausted but wasn't productive in the traditional sense - always remember that work requires constant emotional labor. Give yourself lots of grace and the space to emotionally recharge each day.

We are always capable of a pivot, no matter what stage we are in our careers.

Don't ever let work be the only meaningful thing in your life. Make sure to explore and build a variety of relationships, activities and experiences that make you feel seen, appreciated and alive.

Nothing has to be linear. Be open to unconventional, out-of-the-box pathways to achieve the same goal. Allow yourself to experience learning in a way that is not just educational, but enjoyable and creative.

When it feels like we're facing the same problems over and over again, we need to ask ourselves - what would excite us right now? 

Feeling lost? You're not alone. This is something everyone goes through. Give yourself ample time, patience and support to get through it.

When things get super overwhelming, always remember - it's all temporary.

Don't just have a network. Build a community of mutual support.

Don't let work thoughts invade your personal life. Shut them down and allow your mind and body to relax.

Endless ambition is all around us, but that doesn't mean that you need to constantly be pushing for accelerated growth. Take your career at your own pace and set goals that truly align with your heart.

Don't agonize in isolation. Share your fears and stressors with your community and allow those around you to provide validation, encouragement and perspective, as you would for them if they were in the same situation.