Starting something new can be complicated and layered. Often we need a foundation to hold us steady as we step forward into new terrain.
I’m still on my way, still learning, and it feels like an ongoing adventure of discovery. The exciting part? I’m guessing there will always be something new for me to learn.
Personally, I love hearing how others kickstart something new and challenging. It’s inspiring! I gather ideas from people doing similar things and find ways to apply their approaches to my own process.
Here was part of my process as I moved out of burnout:
#1. I learned good habits.
I embraced productivity by creating routines and habits that supported what I wanted to do. I have an inspiring and encouraging message to share. If I am not able to set aside time to write down my thoughts then that book will not be written or the article completed. No one will be able to enjoy my ideas without structure created in my schedule and daily life. Some of my favorite daily habits:
- Getting plenty of restful sleep.
- Drinking lots of water.
- Daily exercise – usually a long walk.
- Eating lots of fresh fruits and veggies.
- Morning Pages. (My journaling practice from this book and this YouTube video.)
“Habits grow strongest and fastest when they’re repeated in predictable ways, and for most of us, putting an activity on the schedule tends to lock us into doing it.”
“It takes work to make a habit, but once that habit is set, we can harness the energy of habits to build happier, stronger, more productive lives.”
#2. I read great books and I enjoyed thoughtful resources.
New ideas can not exist in a vacuum. To be inspired and to be creative my gas tank needs to be full of great creative work. We live in a world of abundance. There are so many inspiring people, books, podcasts, and resources. I spent time soaking up information and ideas. Reading, listening, and journaling what I learned.
“Continuous learning is the catalyst for reaching your goals and creating your best life!… If you do not have a plan you will fall into someone else’s plan.”
#3. I continued to work on my emotional & relational health.
To start anything new I must have a support system. I needed to invest in my family, my friendships, and my emotional growth. I could not see the road in front of me without knowing where I had been. Just pushing the gas pedal sent me farther into the fog. I needed co-pilots, support, and time spent in reflection. I will keep gathering people around me who are supportive and kind.
Each of us has events and relationships we need to heal from. We will have a vibrant message and more to say if we show up as a healthy version of ourselves. Go to counseling, deepen friendships, see a life coach, talk with a mentor, join an online community for support, and invest in your immediate family without expectations of results.
“You can nourish healthier relationships in order to keep yourself undistracted by self-invented emotional catastrophes.”
“What are you bringing to the table? Meaning, what are you learning and focusing on to move the conversation forward?”
#4. I Organized My Home Environment
When I brought order to our home environment, I made room for creativity. I did not realize at the time how much this would affect my thought life. I did not know the weight that my clutter and disorganized messes had on my mind. But now I feel so much lighter and able to focus. (Although this is a continual process…)
Here are a few articles that may help you with this topic:
“The fact is, when we tailor our approach to suit our own particular challenges and habits, we’re far more likely to be able to create the order that will make our lives happier, healthier, more productive, and more creative.”
–Outer Calm Inner Order by Rubin
150 short, concrete clutter-clearing ideas so each reader can choose the ones that resonate most.
What tip do you have for someone starting a personal growth journey?
We’re all on unique paths, and it’s the shared stories that make it a bit brighter and more exciting.
I would love to hear what is working for you!
💙- April
Come visit me on Substack = APRIL EDWARDS
