Audit & Ask: November

Let's take a look back and then dream a dream, shall we?

Nov 01, 2024

Don't Hesitate

by Mary Oliver

If you suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy,
don’t hesitate. Give in to it. There are plenty
of lives and whole towns destroyed or about
to be. We are not wise, and not very often
kind. And much can never be redeemed.
Still, life has some possibility left. Perhaps this
is its way of fighting back, that sometimes
something happens better than all the riches
or power in the world. It could be anything,
but very likely you notice it in the instant
when love begins. Anyway, that’s often the
case. Anyway, whatever it is, don’t be afraid
of its plenty. Joy is not made to be a crumb.

Every month I check in - in my body, in my to do lists, my habits, my goals.

Here is my Audit & Ask for the past month of October to November.

AUDIT
Take a moment to close your eyes and see all that was October. Meetings, moments, people, health, work, commitments, failures, feelings, celebrations and all the learnings.

In one word, how was October? ___________________________

Unraveling.

What are two learnings you experienced from October?

I have been thinking about the lotus flower. Muddy water and pristine petals, each day coming up through some muck - over and over again. October was the harmony of all things, muck and pristine petals all in a days’ work. And aren’t we always reflected back in nature somehow?
I learned how to be brave in my creative expression. Whilst leading my retreat to the trees, I shared a short story I had written in three parts before the yin yoga classes I led every night. At the culmination of story, I went into the supply closet and quietly sobbed heaving sobs. I felt so many things from the personal tendrils I shared in my story and the emergence of a new part of myself making way for bravery and connection in art.

What are two celebrations you can share from October?

On the last days of October, I finished my first e-book and the finalized PDF landed in my inbox. I am celebrating doing something, anything and everything to keep bringing myself to life while metaphorical and actual chapters close and new ones take form.
I am celebrating friendships. Both my dear friends and the way I have been able to show up for friends this past month. So many ebbs and flows in the friendship domain in my life and I honor those waves.

Thank you October, deep bow for all the chaos you always bring with a reverence for what is on the other side every single time.

ASK
In one word, give November a container? ___________________

EXPRESSION

What do you want in November? Make a list. Write a snapshot.

I want to sleep through the night. Kids are allowed in my bed, fine fine - just don’t wake me up. I want to read my book surrounded by pillows and alpaca socks. I want to feel energized because I took care of my physical body and emotional body. I want candles lit. I want to write with the candles lit. I want prosperity for myself and others so we can laugh more. I want to walk the beach with the crisp air and say thank you. And I want to feel alive with purpose so I can feel so alive in relaxation.

How do you want to feel in November?

Proud of myself. I keep thinking that every conversation I am going to have with someone is going to be laden with feedback for improvement. Something trip wire got triggered and I am so sensitive to connection in fear that I am already doing something wrong. I am going to lean so deep into self compassion, forgiveness and express myself fully and feel so proud of myself for doing just that.

What is one goal (or more) that you can commit to in support of your desires and feelings for November? Start with one goal, see how it goes.