Greetings!

OK I really don’t know how today is the first day of October?! Although the beginning of the Summer feels like a lifetime ago... With so many events, crises and massive changes happening at warp speed, and so much of the future unknown, and in many cases proving or appear to be heading in an unsettling or disturbing direction, it can be hard to get your bearings, stay focused and keep any fear or anxiety in check.

My general mantra and response in times like these (well, we've never quite been in times like these, so let's just say up to now...) has always been that I'm taking it "one day at a time." But honestly, for the past several weeks now, I’m taking it "two hours at a time" - and I have to report back that it has worked wonders!

I’ve always been fairly good at being present, (it's one of the reasons I am such a good coach ;), but I can sometimes get overwhelmed by all the things that I need to do in my life, along with paying attention to what is going on in the world, and realized how much that was causing me suffering, making me feel bad about myself or ruminating about how things might play out that I have little to no control over. So my remedy was to stay out of my head (even more than I normally do!) and only listen to my gut and intuition and see where they lead me - in other words constantly ask internally, or rather, feel into the question "what is the next best thing to do?" and then ask myself the next, and the next etc., only considering about two hours ahead - and not plan much more than that, obviously as realistically as my schedule would allow.

I've found that it really puts you even more into the present moment, and in some magical quantum way expands the time that you do have because you’re only focusing on the next two hours. Especially if you are a very busy person with big projects going on, slowing down will actually allow you to be more productive and less stressed.

It’s also really helpful when dealing with others, as presence is one of the most precious gifts you can give to another. Fully being there and listening to them deeply at all levels - i.e. not just hearing what they are saying while thinking about all the things that you have to do, all your problems or what you want to say etc. can transform many a relationship dynamic...Today's PGG essay reflects all of these themes. Let me know what works for you!

Today's PGG of the Week reminds you to slow down and really listen to your body so you know what it wants or needs at any given moment. The Instagram post is about being where your feet are at, and here's a bonus “om” meditation to help ground and center you. And for the PGG Vibe of the Week, enjoy Simon & Garfunkel's live performance of Feelin' Groovy.

Also, it's been a hot minute since I did a Zoom anything; I plan on doing one towards the end of the month so please let me know what you would like me to offer and stay tuned for announcements.

Last but not least, if you look forward to and benefit from these weekly missives and PGG essays and want to show your gratitude, any donations for my efforts are welcome and appreciated here: Paypal.me/kristinaleonardi. And as always, please feel free to contact me with any comments about anything.

Big hug <3
Kristina

P.S. Want to get unstuck and on track in your career and life in 2021 and beyond? Check out the website for my individual coaching services.