REFLECTION AND FORWARD FOCUS
As we say goodbye to April and hello to the fresh vibes of May, let’s take a quick walk down memory lane. Last month was all about emerging leaders—those brave souls who step into new roles, shake things up, and occasionally feel like they’re juggling fire while wearing roller skates. We followed Jordan’s journey (our resident rising star) and explored the ups, downs, and “Ah-ha!” moments that come with leadership growth.
Jordan’s story hit on some big themes: sharpening communication, finding balance without completely losing your mind, building confidence in those “big leap” decisions, and learning how to turn a group of people into a true team. Along the way, he reminded us that leadership isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, learning, and doing it all with as much grace (and coffee) as possible.
Remember, success isn’t about luck—it’s about showing up and putting in the work, even when the odds are against you.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on your own experiences last month:
- What’s one skill or habit you’ve been working on to level up your personal or professional leadership?
- How are you taking care of yourself while balancing responsibilities (without turning your to-do list into a novel)?
- Who in your circle could you connect with for advice or fresh perspectives?
- What’s one way you can create a more open, trust-filled vibe in your relationships—whether at work or in life?
Remember, success isn’t about luck—it’s about showing up and putting in the work, even when the odds are against you.
Oh, and let’s not forget one of the highlights from April’s newsletter:
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” Wise words from none other than John Quincy Adams.
Leadership isn’t a title; it’s an energy, a vibe, a way of showing up that inspires others to rise alongside you. And hey, you’re doing it. Go you!
Breathe Into May: A Quick Mindfulness Moment
Before we dive into all the goodness May has in store, let’s hit pause for a sec. You deserve it. Try this little reset:
- Take a comfy seat and close your eyes (bonus points for keeping them open if you’re sneaking this at work).
- Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four.
- Hold it for four seconds (yes, just hold on, you’re doing great).
- Exhale gently for a count of six, like you’re blowing out birthday candles for someone turning 100.
- Repeat a few times, and just let your shoulders drop as you exhale—bye-bye tension.
There. Doesn’t that feel good?
As we step into April, let’s carry the lessons from March with us and make this new month even more transformative. Here’s to more action, more growth, and yes, even more coffee! Happy April, and let’s keep marching forward—no luck required!
May’s Journey: Honoring Mothers, Embracing Growth
Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and with it comes an opportunity to pause and reflect on the impact of moms, mother-figures, and caregivers in our lives. But let’s be real—not everyone experiences this season the same way. For some, it’s a time of celebration and gratitude, while for others, it brings tender feelings of loss, longing, or even complexity. Wherever you land this month, you’re not alone, and there’s always room here to explore, reflect, and grow.
For the moms out there, whether you’re balancing a professional career, embracing life as a stay-at-home superhero, or navigating a bit of both, May is an invitation to recognize your journey and the many hats you wear—big and small.
The Irreplaceable Love of Mothers
“A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take.” — Cardinal Mermillod
Finding Balance and Joy
Life as a mom can feel like a whirlwind of responsibilities, achievements, and the occasional (or frequent) sticky-handed chaos. But have you paused lately to consider what you need to feel fulfilled?
Here are some reflections to consider this month:
- What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to learn or try, and how can you begin exploring it now—even in small steps?
- How can you create moments of joy that are just for you, like reconnecting with a long-forgotten passion or starting a new hobby?
- What strengths have you developed in your role as a mom, and how could those strengths guide your goals or vision for the future?
Let’s ditch the idea of perfection—your journey is uniquely yours. Even small, intentional acts can become the steppingstones to long-term growth and fulfillment.
Honoring and Remembering
If you’ve lost a mom or mother-figure, this time of year might come with mixed emotions. The memories may bring both warmth and an ache for their presence. As hard as it can be, this season can also hold space for gratitude and growth, inspired by the connection you’ll always carry.
Here are some reflections to help navigate this time:
- What legacy or lessons from your mom or mother-figure continue to shape your life, and how can you honor that?
- Is there a way to memorialize the qualities you admired in them—through an act of kindness, a creative outlet, or sharing their story with others?
- How can you focus on nurturing connections that bring you comfort or inspire growth, helping to fill some of the spaces their love once occupied?
Consider creating a meaningful ritual, like writing down the things you’re grateful for about them or dedicating a day to doing activities they enjoyed. These acts can help you feel closer to their memory and find peace in moving forward.
Love That Lives On
“What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” — Helen Keller
Grieving is a deeply personal process, and it’s okay to let yourself feel it fully. Growth and reflection often unfold slowly, and that’s okay too.
Moving Forward with Intention
This May, let’s think beyond the here and now. Where do you want to go, and how can you get there? Whether you’re a mom looking to carve out time for personal growth or someone reflecting on the legacy of a loved one, focusing on intentional, longer-term goals can help.
Here are some ideas to consider:
- For moms: What’s one personal or professional dream that’s been quietly waiting in the wings? Could this be the time to take action by researching opportunities, connecting with others who inspire you, or simply outlining your first steps?
- For those honoring a mom or mother-figure: What’s a legacy project or tradition you’d like to start in their honor? It could be a yearly reflection, volunteering for a cause they loved, or creating something meaningful inspired by them.
If you’re ready to explore new possibilities, work through changes, or even reflect on the emotions this season stirs, I’d love to support you. Together, we can make this a time of growth, clarity, and purpose.
Wishing you a May filled with purpose, gratitude, and plenty of moments that make your heart smile.
~ With Care and Celebration, Holly 🌸
Holly Steinhoff, CPC, ELI-MP, CICP
Founder & CEO
Ready to take your leadership journey to the next level? Contact me today and let’s make it happen!
