A Letter To You

Below you will find the email that inspired me to start this blog. I think when I was writing it, I knew it was meant for more than just the recipient in the address line. It spoke to me at my core - a message that we could all use right now. I hope it brings you comfort and makes you feel less alone!

Hello!

I have been thinking about you. I hope you and your family are doing well. I know that our family has been experiencing a rollercoaster of life events and the need for rest and retreat were not well met by our Fall Break. For me as a mother, many days and moments often feel overwhelming and like there is never enough of me to go around. It can seem like there is more to do and process than is possible.

That is why I am reaching out today to make sure that you are doing the things that are necessary to focus on you and your future. While I am looking forward to one day being your coach and a partner in your success, I am more concerned right now that you are paying close attention to your own needs and giving yourself some space to reflect and celebrate successes. The future is full of unknowns and planning for it can feel quite stressful and foster fear, but if we are able to take a moment to breathe and acknowledge that right now you are doing something good and doing it well, we can recharge ourselves for what is ahead.

Not surprisingly, I had to learn this from my coach (thanks, Alex!), my therapist and many trusted advisors who kept repeating this message until I began to hear it (and I am still working on it...). I talk openly and incessantly with others about the power of positive thinking and trusting the universe and the benefit of sharing that message is that I get to see it in others and feel it in my own life. There are many great days ahead and I keep my eyes focused there but I also have learned a few things that are powerful in supporting me to not lose sight. Here are the things that have guided me over the last few months and kept me focused:

• Trust your gut - say yes to the spark of joy and no to rumble of fear. (I listen to Brene Brown to be reminded of this!)

• Plan time for you - alone, to connect with your partner, with friends (even virtually)

• Look at your fear - where is it coming from? Is it blocking you or helping you overcome a challenge? Write is down and continue to reflect on the themes.

• Ask for help. Believe in others and trust that they want you to succeed.

I am always here for you if you want to chat or ideate together. If you have a question or a challenge or you just need a listening ear, never hesitate to reach out.

You can reach me best by email at rachel@leadthinkdo.com or schedule an appointment to chat via Zoom!