Jeff’s Journal
By Jeff Whitaker
Are you back in the routine yet? I know for me as a parent, things get a bit off track in the summer months. The early in the morning rush to head out the door and make the bus goes on hold as does the early bedtime and discipline of study and homework time. Things are much more relaxed. It was particularly amplified this summer for our family as we were blessed to spend an extended time away on vacation and part of the time in Florida for a conference. So we returned home to find school and Labor Day weekend hitting us all at once. The season of sun and sand was coming to a screeching halt. But it’s not just for parents. Most of us alter our schedules in some way during the summer. Then comes September and sure as the sun sets sooner and the nights grow cooler, we find our ‘not so structured summer’ suddenly gone. There is a large part of me that would like to hold on to summer just a little longer. But then again, I do love autumn and getting back in a routine to take on the rest of the year.
So, how do we get back on track and in a more structured routine again? The simple answer is, we’re left without a choice. The calendar and obligations of the season throw us headfirst into change. But there are still adjustments to be made, schedules to be altered and disciplines to be re-learned. The downside of returning to a routine is that it can become just that, a routine where you blindly go through the motions of each day with no end game in mind. You and I need to avoid that temptation at all costs. So, what’s the game plan for this new season?
For me, two words come to mind: focus and intention. While I was away at my conference, one of the speakers, Dave Ramsey talked about the power of unstoppable momentum. He said that what we focus on is what we move the needle on. Maybe that’s why during the more relaxed days of summer, we have a hard time ‘moving the needle.’ There is a lack of focus.
My challenge to you and myself is to find that laser focus on whatever you need to see accomplished this fall (could be personal or professional or both). Identify what it is and then focus. But not just focus, make sure you are intentional in your focus. Make it a point to include in the routine specific time and effort to pursue your desires and goals. Together, let’s “move the needle” and accomplish great things in the weeks ahead.
Jeff Whitaker is a veteran broadcaster here in South Jersey.. He now draws on his experience and training to work with companies and individuals to develop effective storytelling, communications and leadership skills. Find free resources and ways Jeff can work with you at jeffwhitaker.com
