Closing the Summer with Self Possession

As the long weekend of Labor Day signals the unofficial end of summer, I find it fitting to close this season with a deeply personal message about insightfulness—a trait I hold dear. Over the years, I’ve learned that true insight comes from carving out time for solitude, embracing the practice of journaling, and creating rituals that bring meaning to my everyday life. In our fast-paced world, we’ve collectively forgotten the importance of ritual, the small ceremonies that anchor us in the present and remind us of what truly matters.

As we step into September, I encourage you to reflect on the strategic questions that have guided me for over two decades:

• Where have you been?
• What have you learned?
• Where are you going?
• What is required?

These questions are not just about planning—they are about grounding yourself in your journey, acknowledging your growth, and setting a clear, intentional path forward.They ought to come with a CAUTION caveat because if you answer them honestly - your life will change in ways unexpected. You have to be willing to allow grace and synchronicity to disrupt your five year plan.

In addition to these questions, there are key themes that have helped me maintain a strong connection to my core values and inner strength.

Solitude: Solitude is more than just being alone; it is a deliberate choice to disconnect from the noise and distractions of the world so you can reconnect with your inner self. It is in these moments of solitude that I have found clarity and a deeper understanding of my own thoughts, desires, and motivations. Solitude allows you to listen to the whispers of your heart, unclouded by external influences. In this space, you can process your experiences, consider your options, and make decisions that are true to your values. By embracing solitude, you create a sanctuary where your true self can flourish, and your inner wisdom can emerge. This summer I took my very first week long trip by myself - no family, no work, no agenda: just exploration. I had hoped it would be my version of Eat Pray Love (wink) - it was Eat Hike Read and was very personally nourishing. Yes, I went to Lisbon!

Journaling:

I have kept a journal since I was 8 years old. Journaling is not merely the act of writing down thoughts; it is a profound practice of self-discovery and introspection. When I journal, I engage in a dialogue with myself, capturing the essence of my emotions, insights, and experiences. The pages of my journal become a mirror, reflecting back to me the growth and changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. It is a safe space where I can explore my dreams, confront my fears, and celebrate my victories. Through the regular practice of journaling, I have learned to track my progress, gain perspective on challenges, and cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude. Journaling has become a powerful tool that helps me align my actions with my intentions, fostering resilience and clarity in the face of life's uncertainties. In the article Hold onto Your Core, I wrote for Huffington Post a while back I outline some journal prompts that are part of my practice.

Rituals:

In a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable, rituals provide a sense of stability and continuity. They are the intentional practices that bring meaning and structure to our days, helping us to stay grounded and connected to what truly matters. Whether it’s a morning routine that includes meditation and reflection, or an evening ritual of lighting a candle and expressing gratitude, these small ceremonies serve as anchors in my life. They remind me to pause, to breathe, and to be fully present in the moment. Rituals create a rhythm that harmonizes with the natural flow of life, offering comfort and reassurance even in times of change. By incorporating rituals into my daily life, I cultivate a sense of peace and purpose, ensuring that I remain centered and focused on my core values. The Artist Way by Julia Cameron and Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg have been wonderful resources for my ritual discipline. I have added my video from Disrupt HR here because I address the importance of ritual. Distilling 10 slides into 5 minutes demanded keen discernment.

Self-Knowledge:

The journey of self-knowledge is a lifelong pursuit, one that requires patience, curiosity, and honesty. To truly know oneself is to understand the complexities of your character, to embrace your strengths and acknowledge your weaknesses, and to recognize the patterns that shape your thoughts and behaviors. Self-knowledge is not about perfection, but about authenticity—being true to who you are at your core. Through self-reflection and continuous learning, I have come to appreciate the nuances of my personality, the influences of my past, and the aspirations that drive me forward. This deep understanding of myself serves as a compass, guiding my decisions and actions with confidence and integrity. In knowing myself, I am better equipped to navigate the challenges of life, to make choices that are aligned with my values, and to build a life that reflects my true essence.

To be nobody-but-yourself-in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody but yourself-means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight, and never stop fighting. E.E. Cummings

Honoring Your Journey:

Every person’s journey is unique, marked by experiences that shape who we are and who we are becoming. Honoring your journey means acknowledging the lessons learned along the way, both from moments of triumph and from times of struggle. It is about recognizing the growth that has occurred, even when the path was difficult or unclear. For me, honoring my journey involves reflecting on where I have been, understanding how those experiences have contributed to my personal evolution, and embracing the future with hope and intention. It is a practice of self-compassion, where I celebrate my achievements without diminishing the challenges that I have faced. By honoring my journey, I stay connected to my past while remaining open to the possibilities of the future. This perspective allows me to move forward with resilience, knowing that each step I take is part of a greater narrative of growth and transformation.

As you begin this new month, may you find the time to reflect, to create, and to connect with the rituals that bring you strength and clarity. Let this be a season of insight, where you hold onto your core and navigate life with purpose and grace.

In the rigor,

Jennifer

Co-author Strategy Leadership and the Soul

Founder Agility3R