Hi Reader,

I’m not sure how, but the older I get the fast time moves.

I know that’s not technically true. But I also feel deeply in my bones that despite the laws of physics, it IS true for me.

Somehow when I was a teenager, making it from January to summer time took AGES. This year I feel like I went to sleep one evening midway through January and work up in June.

I look back on the past six months, and think: But what did I DO in all of the months? What have I accomplished over the past 165 days?? What do I have to show for the meetings, and subway rides, and task lists…?

If you’re like me, if you don’t pause to reflect, it can be easy to miss the progress you’ve made, the wins you’ve had, and the lessons you’ve learned from the losses.

That’s why this week, as we start to wrap up the first half of the year, I’m sharing articles, resources, and inspiration around how to pause, reflect, and take stock of just how far you’ve come.
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#Onward

Brooke

3 Articles

• How are YOU doing? Personal check-ins are just as important (if not moreso) as organizational or strategic check-ins. This is a great list of year-end reflection questions for leaders that I think 100% apply midyear as well!
• An intentional practice of self-reflection is central to both strong leadership and continued growth. This article helps you figure out which experiences and lessons to actually pay attention to in your reflection to fuel your growth.
• You don’t have to wait until the middle of end of the year to be a “learning” organization. This great article shares a concrete example of how an organization continued to reflect, learn and adjust during COVID.

2 Resources

Two podcasts this week! One from me, and one from my good friend over at Small Shop Strategies, Rachel Bearbower!

• I recommended at the start of the year, that leaders take some time to set intentions for the year. Energetic and psychological anchors that keep you grounded in your purpose as you work to achieve the organizational goals that you and your team set. Now is a great time to revisit them! Check out the original podcast!
• You and your team can - and should - conduct a mid-year organizational ‘check-up” together. Here’s a great set of questions, and a process for how.

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About Leadership Forward 3.2.1

This midweek briefing on sustainable leadership is my passion project. I hope it helps you gain deeper insight and equips you to create meaningful impact in the world. If you find this valuable, I'd love if you'd share with your friends! ​