September 2023 Plans & Intentions

This essay initially appeared in the Monday morning newsletter on 8/28/23.

This Friday is September 1! I can’t believe it, but fall, holidays, and end-of-year happenings are on the horizon, and we’re leaving another summer season behind.

One of the fun things that comes with being in a new apartment (moved in June) is noticing different markers of time. My running path now goes right past Lincoln Park High School, and on my run last Monday, I was almost shocked to see how many students and teachers were milling about on the sidewalk. Oh, right! I thought to myself… first day of school!! Signs of seasons changing. (Even if it was 100+ degrees last week in Chicago.)

Last year I started a monthly planning routine, and while I took a more relaxed approach to planning for this summer, I’m excited to get back to this reflection. The simple exercise – taking time to think about what I love about the month ahead, big things happening, and crafting intentions – helps me feel more present and intentional.    

So, this morning, I’m sharing my plans for September, in case it prompts you to plan your month too! I think it makes for a fun Monday morning activity 

September 2023 Planning

What do I love about the month of September?

• The weather. Sure, Summer with a capital “S” is ending, but summer weather stays around in Chicago for most of the month. Yay for another month of consistently warm weather and ample amount of daylight!
• College football is BACK. Best time of year!!! 
• I love the idea that September is the other January. There’s that collective “back-to-school” vibe in the air. It’s a good month for being productive and practicing new habits.

What big things are happening this September?

• GOING TO IRELAND. First time in Ireland – first time in Europe – and I’m so excited! Going with Matt and his family… counting down the days until we leave this weekend!
• Headed to NYC for work. Also excited for a quick trip for a project I’m working on and the added bonus of finally meeting some co-workers IRL (people I’ve worked virtually with for over two years now!).  
• Going back into the office multiple days a week. I’ve been going into the office on Wednesdays for a while now but will be adding another day in September. That changes up the routine a bit.  
• Running a half marathon! I signed up for this half marathon in January, and I can’t believe it’s in just a couple of weeks! I’ve really been enjoying training this summer and hope for a successful outcome. Luckily when it’s your first half marathon anything qualifies as a PR (personal record) 

So, yes, there’s a lot happening in September. But this is why I love this monthly planning practice… when I first wrote everything out, I was overwhelmed by the volume. As I reflected some more, I started to identify a few reframes that can guide how I move through the month.

For example, how fortunate am I that I have a weeklong trip at the beginning of a busy month? A great time to relax, recharge and gear up for what’s ahead. This reframe helps influences how I’ll approach this trip. While I’m very excited to do all-the-things, I also will be looking for opportunities to rest and enjoy the change of pace.

I’ll be traveling and away from my routines for almost two weeks – but I know how excited I’ll be to return to the ordinary and the everyday things and really craft my fall routine. When I start to feel a bit twitchy about not being in my usual rhythms, I’ll remind myself that second half of September = routine time, and prompt myself to think about what I want that routine to look like.  

September 2023 Intentions

• Enjoy calm, quiet Monday mornings. Even with the traveling and the fun things planned, I know I can carve out time on Mondays to journal, write, read… whatever I feel like doing! This might mean I don’t get a workout in Monday mornings or need to make sure I’m in bed early on Sundays, but I know starting my week with some solo, quiet time will pay dividends later on.
• Write out my “ideal week.” I’ve done this exercise before and found it really helpful for thinking about how I want to use my time, carving out open, free time, and helping me more intentional. With some changes to my routines, I thought this would be a great time to revisit the exercise. Planning to do this on the plane either on the way to or from Ireland!
• Get back in the habit of packing my lunch. One of the best parts – in my opinion – about working from home is being able to make lunch in the moment vs. in advance. Then, when I do go into the office, I get to break it up and splurge on an overly expensive salad. But with going back into the office more than 1 time/week, I just can’t justify multiple expensive salads. So, I’m still going to cherish my one, but also get back in the habit of packing my lunch. I used to do it five days a week… surely with some planning and preparation I can do it once or twice!! (A cute container should help ).
• Write my list of 100 dreams. This is an item on my 23 in 23 list that I haven’t completed yet. Also a great plan activity!
• Be realistic with myself about what I can and can’t handle. Even with the reframes and the planning, I’m giving myself permission to drop a few balls during this busy – and exciting! – month. As part of that, I won’t be sending out a newsletter next Monday or the Monday after (except for maybe a few pictures ), but will be back as normal Monday, Sept. 18. Can’t wait to catch you up on this whirlwind of a month.

Wishing you a wonderful week ahead and see you in September!