Procrastination Turns Into Proactivity With The #OcvemberChallenge

 

 

October is a reminder that change is on the horizon for all of us. The weather becomes cooler, the nights arrive quicker, and the cheery sights and sounds of the holidays begin to appear around us. It is evident in the months of October, November, and December that our society is encouraged to “get cozy,” “snuggle up,” and “bundle” during the end of the year. We see such messaging and imagery in charming holiday commercials on television, artfully displayed advertisements in magazines, and appealing ads on social media. Businesses, brands, and corporations of all shapes and sizes have figured out the marketing secret sauce to get us into the seasonal spirit. Now, I have to admit, I love a good oversized sweatshirt, fireplace, and pumpkin-spiced anything, too. It is natural for us to want to stay warm when it is freezing out. However, the three months leading up to the New Year tends to be a time when many people turn off their A-game. How often do you hear others say, “I can’t wait for this year to be over with!” or “I’m going to get through the holidays and start fresh in January.” My wish and challenge for you is to change your mindset and ignite the motivation within you to make October through December the best part of your year yet.

 

I call this The #OcvemberChallenge, which is for everyone wanting to finish this year with their head held high, and get a jump start on key goals for the year ahead. To do this, I ask that you think about the points below: 

 

 

It is embedded in all of us that when the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, we must have a few New Year’s resolutions in place. Well, where are you with those goals from the 1st of the year? Did you hit those milestones? If you have–great! You should genuinely be proud of yourself. For those of you that have forgotten about your resolutions, I suggest you use these next three months to reactivate your determination. Do your best to get your wheels turning to put your goals and dreams into motion. This is your reminder!

 

I am not one to make excuses for goals not being accomplished. But, life does have a funny way about sneaking up and throwing us a monkey wrench or two. This could be anything from a financial hardship surprise, unexpected personal matter, a job-related turn, to simply not following through. I ask that you make a list of the hurdles and obstacles that you think prevented you from achieving your goals. Doing this will allow you to reflect on what and who you consider to be a roadblock in your life. However, your own name should be at the top of your list because the only person holding you back is you!

 

I want you to think about where you spend most of your time. For many of us, it is at our work jobs and in our beds. So, let’s begin with the importance of getting a solid night’s sleep. In order for our bodies and minds to fully rest (and recharge!), we must focus on getting proper shut-eye. I encourage you to think about your bedroom as a sanctuary of peace. That means your mattress is a soothing cloud of comfort and the surrounding area around it reflects a sense of calmness, organization, and cleanliness. Get in the habit of washing your pillowcases and sheets regularly, using an aromatherapy diffuser by your bedside, and truly creating a zen environment. When you have sleep, you have energy, clarity, and a better attitude. These are necessities when trying to conquer goals. A messy room, uncomfortable mattress, and clutter subconsciously affect emotions.

 

Taking action is the hardest step when trying to achieve a goal. You can think about a goal all day long, but it won’t do you any good if all you do is keep talking about it. If you want to get in better shape–go to the gym; if you want to talk to your boss about a raise–set up a meeting; if you want to start a new career–work on your resume; if you want to make amends with a family member–pick up the phone. Making the next three months count is based on your actions and attitude. So, I encourage you to set up a plan and carve out specific days when you will bring that action to life. Your smartphone is indeed smart, so use its tools and calendars to hold yourself accountable by setting “Action Day” reminders. It is never too late to make tomorrow better, but you must start acting now.

 

This sounds like a rule for kids, but in fact, it should be carried across all age ranges. It is a reminder to be kinder to yourself and others. Our world has hit some rough patches of hate, violence, and discrimination. Just reading the news or scrolling through social media can bring your energy down. Throughout many of my articles, I often ask for everyone to strive to be a “leader of love.” This is someone that tries to see the good in any situation, never judges, is welcoming, accepting, and believes that love conquers all. I know we can all get irritable at times, but please do your best at being nicer to the people around you. This can be as simple as changing your tone or even smiling more.

 

Ending the year on a strong note and accomplishing your goals is a gift to yourself. I am a believer when life is good to you, and you are good to life, you must do your part in giving back. Do something that helps, inspires, and brings light to another person, organization or special cause. The holiday season is when many people need help or feel alone.

 

I am a big fan of holiday traditions, especially when everyone is getting along and there is nothing to worry about besides celebrating family togetherness. For many, the holidays often bring out stress and uneasy feelings. Things such as traveling, present purchasing, family drama, and work schedules can add a damper to the holiday cheer. My suggestion for everyone is to take control of your holiday plans and do something that is going to align with your end of year goals and current mindset. Any time off you get from work should be spent in the way that you want. So, consider creating your own tradition and reinvent your holiday schedule and desires.

 

The #OcvemberChallenge is a reminder to yourself that there are three solid months left in the year to reconnect to your goals and create a launchpad for a healthy 2020. This challenge also forces you to reflect and reevaluate your life, so that you can take into action the right steps of being the best version of yourself.

 

Onward and upward!

 

With Gratitude,

 

Matt Jacobi-Caprio

Matt Jacobi has been a voice of truth on various world topics such as women’s rights, religion, mental health, bullying and equality. In December, Jacobi and his fiancé, Nick Caprio created a “Same Sex Barbie Wedding Set” for his niece’s 8th birthday, with the hopes to inspire toy giant, Mattel. After posting a message and picture on his social media platforms, the set went viral and became international news around the world. Jacobi and Caprio recently met with Mattel at their Los Angeles headquarters and are now part of the Barbie family. 

 

Jacobi previously worked for international entrepreneurs in the medical, real estate and fashion industry. This dynamic experience had him traveling the globe learning first hand what it takes to run multiple businesses. It also allowed him to work along New York City’s top publishing company, Simon & Schuster and PR power house, Rubenstein Public Relations.

 

His earlier career began in television after graduating from Arizona State University where he landed his first job at ABC News in Phoenix, Arizona. He later made the move to Hollywood where he worked at the celebrity news show, E! News. Shortly after, The E! Network went on to feature him in a television wedding special capturing his lifestyle expertise. 

 

Today, Jacobi is a Chief Operating Officer for an award-winning agency where he leads a creative team of designers, graphic designers and branding experts. 

 

Jacobi and Caprio married in May 2019 after 11 years together. They were the first same sex couple to marry at The Scottsdale Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona.