🧰 Simple Tools Still Work


Hi Reader,

As I transition out of summer mode and back into work mode, I’m using a familiar tool: Start / Stop / Continue.

It’s simple. And it works — as long as you’re cool to occasionally look in the mirror, slow down to notice your behavior and energy, thoughtfully critique yourself, and do the hard work of self-improvement. But, hey, who isn’t? 😅

Personally, after time off, I’m always itching to do exercises like these — I can’t wait to recommit to my daily rituals and consider which habits are/aren’t serving me. 🤓

So, I’ve been using a Start / Stop / Continue to name small shifts I want to make — both personally and professionally.

For example:

  • ✅ I want to start owning my strengths. I’ve put in the reps — I don’t need to downplay what I know or hold back when I can help.
  • 🛑 I want to stop neglecting my inbox, so I can get back to my usual organized self and stop carrying that low-level anxiety that I’m missing something important.
  • ➡️ I want to continue making space to read and journal, so I have the mental bandwidth to be fully present while playing with my kids after a long workday.

Sometimes there might be a lot you want to adjust or acknowledge. That’s okay! You don’t have to do it all at once. In fact, it might be better if you don’t.

Tackling one small, focused change builds momentum. It gives you a real win to anchor to — and often, that one shift starts to ripple into other parts of your life naturally.

Take a moment to pause & reflect.

  • What do you want to start, stop, or continue right now?
  • Which part of your daily life is no longer serving you (personally or professionally)?

Actions, experiments, & things to try next.

Set a 15-minute timer and grab a blank page or your favorite note taking app, and make a table with three columns: Start / Stop / Continue. Then, list what comes to mind. Try not to judge what you list, just focus on emptying your mind. You can clean it up later.

Until next time,

Michael

Michael Schefman | 321 Liftoff

Copyright © 2024 by 321 Liftoff LLC

Michel Schefman, 321 Liftoff

Starting a business is exciting and ambiguous – and that’s the fun. It’s a time of possibility, experimentation, imagination, and showing the world what you can do. But, it can also feel slow, frustrating, and full of traps and distractions, leaving potential entrepreneurs to question their self-worth and to wonder why they started in the first place. As a small business coach, I’ll help you cultivate an entrepreneur’s mindset, so you can start and grow your businesses with confidence and step boldly into the role of business owner. Subscribe to get access to weekly tips, small business interviews, and more.

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