I’ve spent the first three quarters of this year transitioning into a position where I could comfortably call myself a blogger, on top of making sure I excel in my career and continue to grow as an individual. I just recently got the hang of that. I won’t go as far to say that I’ve mastered it because some days still kick my ass, but overall I know what I’m doing. Last month I reached a point where I was ready for more. I had comfortably created a schedule where I was posting consistently, shooting consistently, still giving my job my A game, living my personal life without feeling guilty and not losing any sleep. My thought process is “I’m good where I’m at, now I can move on. I can get better“. I’ve always got the desire to push all of my limits, while maintaining my balance. Once I conquer that, I want new challenges. Getting better often includes doing things you don’t necessarily have to, but should make the time to. I’ve created what a Power Hour looks like for me by spending just 15 minutes a day on each task below –
15 minutes of cardio
The past month I’ve been up at 5:30 during the work week to make sure I get a workout in before I start my day. The thought of waking up at 5:30 before last month would’ve made me nauseas, but now that I’m doing it I’m realizing it’s really not a big deal. I’m not any sleepier than I was before and adding an hour to my day makes a substantial difference in my productivity. My workout lasts for an hour, but I never do more than 30 minutes of cardio. 15 minutes is enough to get my blood flow going, burn a couple calories and get me ready for my day. No lie, I feel fantastic all day long.
15 minutes of meditation
This looks different for everyone. For some of us it may be prayer, for others it may be practicing the law of attraction. For me it’s physically writing down what I need to do, what I’m working towards and what I want to see for my life; particularly that day. All of my anxieties surface overnight, so I’m most emotional (positive and negative feelings) in the mornings. Writing things down makes them real for me. It’s a purposeful way to acknowledge where my thoughts are at. Not only does it give me something to reference, but it also helps keep what I desire and am working towards at the forefront of my mind. I even write down things I want to do less of, like worry about the uncontrollables or be slower to react since I’m so naturally temperamental.
15 minutes of reading
Reading has expanded my thoughts more than I would’ve imagined. I’ve always loved literature, but I really started using it for personal development the year before I graduated college. While reading The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, I felt empowered realizing I already had many characteristics that many great leaders do and that I could continue to grow. Reading A Return to Love helped me accept that not all things will go my way and there’s divinity in that. It reminded me that people are allowed to be people and do what makes them happy without me taking it personally. Girl Boss confirmed that there is a such thing as an influential introvert and I can still inspire. I find new things out about not only myself, but the world and everyone living in it because I’ve picked up a book and spent 15 minutes in it. Reading is one thing that’s always for your benefit.
15 minutes of gratitude
A thankful walk is so important to me. I’ve come so far but more times than not, I find myself thinking “why am I not here yet?” or “why don’t I have this yet?”. It’s cliche, but I constantly have to remind myself of the wonderful position I’m in, even if I’m not where I know I’ll eventually be. I’ve spoiled myself to where some luxuries have lost their substance and became my new normal. That’s fantastic, but doesn’t take away from away from the fact that I have much more than what I need and plenty of what I want. Taking the time out to list off even the smallest things I’m grateful for keeps me grounded and focused.
I encourage you to indulge in an hour of growth daily. 60 minutes of pushing your limits will make more of a difference than you know.
Good Morning Courtney! – I truly love this concept of a “Power Hour”. While it may look different for different individuals, it has a common theme. Reflection, rejuvenation, and recognition of oneself. For example, I used to have so many excuses for why fitness couldn’t FIT into my hectic lifestyle. Now, I do 5am gym sessions with somewhat ease and it really impacts my mood daily. (Plus…. I don’t think they ready for this jelllllly). ha!
Great post. Great 1st Monday Motivation for November. Especially loved how your last post was about balance and how you define it. Perfect segue into what your particular balance can look like in a day. 🙂
-avid reader
Cassidy!
Lmao Cassidy they ain’t ready! I’m ready more now than ever to take things to the next level in all areas of my life. A power hour is just one way to do that if only a tiny bit daily. 2016 is almost done for, let’s get it!
Courtney, this post just goes to show what a wonderfully organized, motivated and amazingly brilliant person you are. After all of our thoughts, plans and ambitions, our future is still in the hands of God. By preparing ourselves for bigger and better things, God’s blessing are just magnified in our lives. You are a beautiful work and you will make the most of all of your God given qualities. I as always stand in awe at your combination of “street smarts”, common sense and brains combined to make you very special.
Baylis
Thank you Baylis! Your words are always so sweet.
Wonderful post!!!
Thank you so much Enrica! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
This post is right on time for me! I’ll be applying to law schools next fall so these next 365 days are about to be hectic to say the least. I’m nearing the end of my undergrad career and I’m trying to be intentful about maximizing my time and only giving energy to things that bring me closer to my goals and what God wants me to do. Implementing a power hour like this into my days will help me remain calm and focused. Thanks so much for a great post and I truly appreciate your blog over all.
-Cheyenne
Cheyenne, first let me say – I’m proud of you! Law school is a big deal and a big decision but you’ll conquer it with ease. More than anything, I want God to have his way even when it’s not what I want for myself. Reminding myself of what I desire and going into my days with positivity makes such a huge difference. You’ll do great! Let me know if there’s anything I can help you with. xx
Love this & everything you’re doing with this blog !!
Thank you so much Erin! I really appreciate your compliments, they keep me going. xx
Lovely post…thanks Courtney!
Thank you so much Jessica! I’m glad you enjoyed it boo! <3
Hi Courtney I actually met you through Jenny from her bday hangout last year..lol I ran across your blog and I absolutely love your content.. I don’t follow as many as I used to due to not consistently being engaged.. But i must say I am completely engaged and inspired . I started a blog years ago but motherhood and entrepreneurship has taken over. Hope to get it back going eventually. Thanks for your voice , view, and transparency !
Hey girl! Your comment means SO much to me because that’s exactly why I created it; to inspire and engage. If there’s anything that I can help you with please don’t hesitate to let me know, xx.
Great points of inspiration to ignite motivation!
I do it for myself, but it always makes me so happy to know it works for y’all too! 😉
I love this post. (I love every post) but this for sure was very enlightening. Thanks Courtney!
Anytime hun! Please let me know how it works out for you if you decide to try it.