Look familiar? This is the slide for the beginning of each of our On Demand classes: a reminder to pause before we dive into the session.

Why is clearing space so important? According to the Mayo Clinic, practicing mindfulness improves attention and decreases job burnout. And it truly is a practice which is why we include the reminder in each class.

And as we get ready for 2021, let us do so with mindfulness.

Put away distractions. 

Distractions are so 2020. Well, not truly; although it seemed that there was a serious “interruption” at each turn last year. Truly, life is full of distractions on the regular.

Interruptions give us a new starting point.  As we are able, we should pivot from “what had worked” to “what will work” in the new landscape. As we prepare for this NEW year with the HOPE that things may return to normal, we’ve reached a point of interruption that gives us a freedom to make NEW plans, not just “copy, paste” from pre-2020.

If we are honest, some things are working better.  Mindfulness requires that we take a step back to assess not only what we are doing, but WHY.

Grab something to write with and on.

It’s important that we keep track of what we do.  Our daily routines create the life we lead.  Where are our routines leading us?

Get comfortable.

Let’s settle in.  As we pursue this freedom of new plans, we can focus on what works best.  Working from home, if that is still your de rigeur, may provide the opportunity to remain in comfortable clothing from your favorite space. Let this support you as you make plans for a better 2021.

Stay in your comfy pants, but “comfortable” is not where change happens.  As we practice mindfulness, we may visualize where we are and where we want to go. “Productive discomfort” – when we step out of our normal routine on a gradual path to self-improvement – is how we will get there.

So now let’s take a deep breath and make room for what’s next.

You can find more information on executive coaching or our On Demand Leadership Development courses on our website.