What would you do with your daily routine if you could make all of the rules? 

This isn't a hypothetical question. In all honesty, contemplate and then perhaps write down a daily routine that would excite you so much you couldn't wait to wake up even on Mondays, enable you to be feel productive, ensure you were healthy and active, but also leave you smiling at the end of the day as you drift off to sleep.

On my Monday, I was giddy. Why? I began, as I do each summer, my self-generated ideal daily schedule. I kid you not, I was exuberant the way a child may be on December 24th as I tucked myself into bed Sunday night. But as I shared in this week's episode of the podcast (we'll talk more about that in a minute), finding what it is you love doing, finding what you are passionate about is the fuel you need to do what is necessary to do each and every day over and over and over again and to do so with sincere exhilaration. 

So, I'll ask you again, what would you do with your daily routine if you could make all the rules? Now, begin to make one or two small changes to shift it from a dream to the reality you have the opportunity to experience each and every day. Maybe it is as simple as delegating one chore to lighten your schedule or maybe it is as grand as contemplating a move to a town that will shorten your commute and give you more time doing what you love. You can cultivate this life you now may only dream of. Simply have clarity of vision and then devise the small steps that will get you to each significant pillar needed to as you take off in the right direction. 

The right direction, I recently discovered for myself, was choosing to produce the Ask Shannon episode of the podcast that went live this past Monday. Never in the history of the podcast have more people downloaded an episode in a single day. In fact, it was downloaded three times more than any other episode. If you haven't tuned in yet, it is an extra lengthy episode with approximately 18 questions from readers and listeners being answered. I had tremendous fun getting to know the readers/listeners better, and if this inaugural episode was any indication, we may have to do it again next year. What do you think? Keep the questions coming.   

Also this week, I had the opportunity to return to Portland as I was invited back to Afternoon Live to talk about money, living well and in the final segment, how to pair wine and cheese. You can see both videos in this week's Petite Post and be sure to check out TSLL's Instagram feed as a few new and some old favorite destinations were on my agenda as well (p.s. - I found a lovely French restaurant which was the top restaurant in Portland when it first opened its doors in 2015, and you will want to put it on your list to visit). 

Well, as we wrap up June and stay hello to July, I will be enjoying the commencement of Wimbledon, spending time on the water but also in front of my computer. What might you be up to this weekend (perhaps an extended 4th of July weekend for some)? However you enjoy the two or more than a few days off, have fun, relax and take that deep breath you've been wanting to release. It's time. It's time to step toward what works best for you. Until next week, I'll see you on the blog.​​​​​​​