Hey there Reader,
A September to Remember: Steady Steps, Lasting Change
September always feels like a new beginning. The air shifts, routines return, and there’s a sense of possibility — but also the weight of change. Some changes we choose, others we’re thrown into. Either way, how we respond matters.
Steady, Not Steep
One of the biggest takeaways from my recent workshop was this: progress doesn’t need to be dramatic to matter.
Small, consistent steps matter more than bursts of effort followed by burnout. Staying committed, even when the pace feels slow, builds trust in yourself and direction for your life.
The challenge? Old patterns tug at us, whispering that change is too hard or too slow. But when you resist quitting, you start to see what’s really possible. Self-focus isn’t selfish — it’s how you bring out your most authentic self and stop living someone else’s life.
A Story of Staying the Course
Recently, I worked with a client who felt caught in the weeds. She was doing the work, taking small steps, but she couldn’t see the bigger picture. She wanted results — momentum, clarity, confidence — and because it wasn’t happening fast enough, she was ready to quit. It almost derailed her progress.
We talked about the reality of change: that it’s rarely immediate, and often we’re too close to see our own growth. Every day she was making shifts — in her confidence, her boundaries, her belief in herself. She couldn’t always see it, but those small steady steps were transforming her. With support and a new perspective, she began to acknowledge her progress, however small. She stayed the course, and eventually something clicked.
I’ve experienced that too. Leaving a 30-year career to build my coaching practice has brought its share of doubt. I’ve had moments where I wondered: Am I bringing value? Why does some of this feel so hard while other parts feel effortless? Like my client, I’ve had to go back to my “why” — the meaning behind what I do — and remind myself that progress comes through persistence.
The truth is this: “There is nothing holding you back in life more than yourself.” (Brianna Wiest, The Mountain is You).
Facing that truth is uncomfortable, even frightening, but also freeing. When we see how much power we actually hold, we stop giving it away to old stories and doubts.
And that’s where steady progress becomes essential. Resistance will rise, fear will whisper, and obstacles will show up. The key is not giving in to the urge to quit, but instead asking why is this resistance here? and what’s the next small step forward?
🌱 A Simple Framework for Navigating Change
Change doesn’t have to overwhelm you. Here are four steps you can return to when life shifts:
- Be Curious, Not Evasive
Avoiding fear only prolongs it. Instead of running, ask: What’s here for me to learn? Curiosity creates space for possibility.
-
Use the A–B–C Framework
- A – Accept that change is happening.
- B – Breathe & Assess what strengths or support you have.
- C – Choose your next small step.
- Name & Face Fear
Fear is normal. Saying out loud, “I’m afraid because…” takes away some of its power. Fear is information, not a stop sign.
- Anchor into Possibility
Imagine the good that could come from this change — even something better than where you are now. Hold onto that spark.
- Relish the Good Along the Way
Celebrate what’s working now. Gratitude fuels resilience.
🍂 September’s Simple Pleasures
In the middle of all this talk about change, I want to pause and remind you to savor the small joys. They are often the steady anchors that keep us grounded. This September, I’m noticing:
- The golden light of early evening.
- A warm cup of tea in the morning (a ritual I treasure).
- The crisp air that makes me want to walk a little further.
- The quiet joy of pulling on a cozy sweater.
- Fresh apples, sweet and tart, straight from the orchard.
These simple moments matter. They remind us that life isn’t only about the big goals but also about the daily joy we create along the way.
✨ A Question for You
Where in your life are you being invited to stay steady, even when change feels slow or uncomfortable? What small step could you take today toward your bigger vision?
If you’re ready to explore this more deeply, I’d love to walk beside you in this season of change. Together, we can uncover what’s possible for you and create a path that feels true, steady, and yours.
Staying Connected
As always Reader, if this has value for you drop me a line and please share this with anyone who you think may be interested.
If you are interested in subscribing to my newsletter and getting updates then hit the link below and you will get a free guide on "The 7 Steps to Banishing Burnout" as my thank you and you will be added to the list. Enjoy!