Hit the Refresh Button: Your Guide to a Successful Monthly Reset

We are at the start of a new month and that means that it is time to sit down and think about what this month has in store for us. I don't like it when I feel like the month just whisked by in a blur of deadlines, obligations, and that ever-present to-do list. That's why I'm a huge believer in the power of a monthly reset. It's a chance to pause, reflect, and recharge before diving headfirst into the next month's adventures.

So, how do you actually make a monthly reset work for you? Here's my personal recipe for success:

1. Grab Your Calendar and Channel Your Inner Cartographer

I'm a visual person, so I like to have a big, printed calendar hanging right there in my home office. This way, I can see the entire month at a glance and schedule everything important as birthdays, concerts, work deadlines, etc. This also helps me identify any potential conflicts and avoid double-booking myself (been there, done that!).

You can then also grab your planner and go through each day that you know you have something important and write it down. Of course, if you are more of a digital planner you can do all of this but in your Notion. If you don't know what Notion is check out this simple guide.

2. Short-Term Goals: Bite-Sized Steps to Big Wins

Think of your monthly goals like a delicious meal - you wouldn't try to devour everything in one bite, right? The same goes for your goals! Break down larger aspirations into smaller, achievable steps you can tackle throughout the month.

For example, say your long-term goal is to run a marathon in six months. This month, you could focus on achieving smaller goals like running three times a week or completing a specific training program. Remember, every accomplishment, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction!

3. Long-Term Dreams: Plant the Seeds for Future Success

While it's important to celebrate the short-term wins, don't lose sight of your bigger-picture aspirations that you probably set at the beginning of the year. Dedicate some time this month to revisiting your long-term goals and identifying one or two actionable steps you can take towards achieving them this month. This could involve signing up for a relevant online course, researching resources, or simply scheduling time to brainstorm strategies.

4. Set Your Intentions and Let Them Be Your Guiding Light

Beyond the to-do lists and schedules, take some time to set your intentions for the month. What core values do you want to embody? What positive emotions do you want to cultivate? Write these intentions down and keep them somewhere you'll see them regularly, like your phone's lock screen or a sticky note on your desk. This will serve as a constant reminder of the energy you want to bring to your month.

5. Personalize It! This is YOUR Reset, Not a One-Size-Fits-All Recipe

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to a monthly reset. What works for me might not work for you, and that's perfectly okay! The key is to find what resonates with you and experiment until you find a routine that helps you feel productive, energized, and ready to conquer the month ahead.

Bonus Tip: Take some time for yourself during your monthly reset. Whether it's a long walk in nature, a relaxing bath, or simply reading a good book, prioritize activities that bring you joy and peace. A rejuvenated you is a more productive you, after all!

Monthly Reset Reflection Prompts

Reviewing the Past Month:

What went well in the past month? Celebrate your accomplishments, big or small.
What challenges did you face? Were there any recurring obstacles?
Did you achieve any of your goals from last month? If not, why not?
Did you stick to your intentions? How did they influence your decisions?
What areas of your life could use some improvement? Be honest with yourself.

Setting Intentions and Goals for the Next Month:

What do I want to prioritize this month? Health, work, personal projects, relationships?
What feelings and experiences do I want to cultivate this month? Joy, peace, focus, creativity?
What are 2-3 specific, achievable goals I want to set for this month?
What steps can I take this month to move closer to my long-term goals?
What habits do I want to cultivate/break this month? Identify positive habits that support your goals.

Planning and Organization

What important events or deadlines do I need to remember this month? Mark them on your calendar.
What resources do I need to achieve my goals? Books, tools, support systems?
What small, daily, or weekly tasks can I schedule to stay on track? Break down bigger goals into manageable steps.
Who can I ask for support or accountability this month? Consider joining a community or a group focused on similar goals.
How can I incorporate self-care and relaxation into my schedule this month? Prioritize activities that bring you joy and recharge your energy.



Remember: These are just starting points! Feel free to adapt these questions and prompts to fit your specific needs and goals.

By taking some time for reflection and planning, you can set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling month ahead! So, grab your calendar, set those intentions, and get ready to hit the refresh button on your month! Remember, small steps lead to big changes, and every journey begins with a single step. Now go out there and make this month amazing!