February 2024 | Volume No 2
FOUNDER’S LETTER
Embracing Discomfort
I’ve been thinking a lot about motivation lately. What is the ultimate source for lasting motivation? Is it optimal health that yields sustainable energy? Is it the desire to improve? Is it a survival mode that kicks in to get out of a certain environment or situation? Is it perhaps that pivotal moment when frustration propels us into action? Or is it that external force that inspires such a momentum you can’t help but to act on it?
The quest for enduring motivation is real. Yet the challenge lies in its elusive nature, seldom present when it’s needed. So many of us delay positive change until a self-appointed designated day arrives. I’ll start tomorrow. I’ll start on Monday. After the holidays. After the New Year. Yet these self-imposed initiation deadlines come and go, leaving us with unrealized dreams and unacted on potential with countless arbitrary days in between.
Did you know that according to an article in Time Magazine as many as 80% of people fail to keep their New Year’s resolutions by February? As the transition from one year to the next unfolds, millions of people will embark on a journey to reinvent themselves. But only a mere 8% manage to honor their resolutions throughout the course of the year. That means an additional 12% join the original 80% in the months that follow. Considering this suboptimal track record, it is worth asking, what actually fuels that select 8%?
Through personal trials and numerous attempts at achieving my goals, I've unearthed a fundamental truth—lasting change—and that greatness that we are all pursuing, thrives in the inconspicuous corners of consistency and the mundane. It’s the small, micro decisions—the seemingly inconsequential choices we make daily that compound into significant progress towards our desired achievements.
There's a misconception that once we resolve to do better, we will wake up the next day, automatically the new version of ourselves, and motivation will miraculously materialize at the snap of our fingers. But motivation is not sitting on the sidelines like a Pokémon encapsulated in a Pokéball waiting to be summoned into battle. In reality, motivation will likely ghost us, like it ghosted that above 80% to take an impromptu holiday, leaving us to navigate life without its constant presence. Even when we need it to be present.
For the longest time, I struggled with implementing a consistent fitness routine. Opting for the path of least resistance, I incorporated enjoyable activities like outdoor walks, yoga, and light dumbbell workouts at home in the evening. Something is better than nothing—I thought. And while that may be true for some circumstances—especially when getting started, my approach didn't yield sustainable or desired results, and the routine fizzled out after a few weeks anyway. It became too easy to justify missing a workout. I’m completely swamped with my business and need to keep working. I’d rather spend quality time with my family—life is short after all! I’m too exhausted. So, it was time to re-strategize and try again. And again. And again. Until I realized—well—I can’t seem to get myself to my goal on my own. So I decided to join my husband at his morning weight-lifting sessions at the gym, initiating a complete lifestyle overhaul.
Revamping my morning routine, shifting my work schedule, overhauling my nutrition with a significant increase in protein, meticulously tracking my macros, establishing an earlier bedtime to ensure I had energy for arduous gym sessions and a full demanding work day afterwards, mastering the use of new fitness equipment and proper form, and enduring the initial discomfort of these adjustments were essential steps in solidifying a lasting routine aimed at achieving my fitness goals. Was the change easy? No. It took my body and internal rhythm a few weeks to adjust to the new routine. Am I seeing visible results? Not quite yet. I will likely see them at the 5 month mark. And here’s another important lesson—to keep going even when you don’t see immediate results of your labor. But after two months, I've established a consistent routine—my longest streak to date. And that is a win itself. The subsequent milestone for this goal is to sustain it for 6 months, then 1 year, and on and on. Wish me luck!
So, my point is this: sustainable change and the cultivation of better habits lie in embracing discomfort. It lies in the chore-like feeling tasks that yield no pleasure in the moment but like compound interest lead to significant progress. I've learned not to rely on the whims of motivation, whether in personal or business goals—or even when it comes to daily tasks. Showing up consistently, regardless of our internal feelings, builds self-confidence and self-trust, fostering resilience against impulse decisions and momentary pleasures. Practice making better choices, even in the face of exhaustion or temptation. For instance, the five-second restraint in choosing a home-cooked meal over getting fast food on the commute from work may feel disgruntling in the moment, but the sense of accomplishment afterward is unparalleled.
In summary, my word of intention for 2024 is "discomfort." I've come to realize that, while it's more satisfying to do things when we want to, the feeling in the moment becomes irrelevant when we acknowledge the progress made. True change happens when we become comfortable being uncomfortable, anticipating and embracing discomfort in pursuit of our goals.
So, what goals have you put on the back burner that you can bring back out for 2024?
Life can be overwhelming. Inconveniences, disruptions, and adversity are inevitable, but true development blossoms through uncomfortable moments. Make 2024 your year of authentic change by expecting discomfort, and unlike that 80% that have already given up by this month, commit to your goals regardless.
On this note, I've included a few resources that have greatly influenced my motivation. While I've read numerous personal development books, only two have truly stood out to me so far—Who Says You Can’t? You Do by Daniel Chidiac and You Can Heal Your Life. by Louise Hay. Additionally, listening to motivational speakers has been a cornerstone of my morning routine, with Les Brown reigning supreme amongst all (in my personal opinion).
Wishing you a month filled with growth, resilience, and triumph over discomfort.
— Elena
FEBRUARY 2024 CELESTIAL GUIDE
If you are a holder of The Astral Planner, you may have already noticed on your Monthly Dashboard that February is a month without prominent celestial events or significant meteor showers visible to the naked eye—as those being the exclusive focus of our coverage. Beyond our discussions on this month's numerological energy and lunar phases, this month’s issue of The Athenaeum presents a special treat: insights into select planetary ingresses (when a planet enters a new zodiac or house). These transits, amongst additional astrological aspects, are noted in the February Overview Calendar, nestled within your 2024 Edition of The Astral Planner.
Numerological Insight: Embracing the Power of One
The presence of the number 1 in February 2024 signals a cosmic initiation, inviting us to embark on new projects, ventures, and self-introspective journeys. It serves as a catalyst for fresh starts, encouraging us to leave behind the echoes of January’s energetical vibration of 9, the number of completion, and step into uncharted territories of 2024 with a renewed sense of purpose.
Symbolizing the archetype of the pioneer, the number 1 underscores the importance of embracing individuality and leadership. During this numerological cycle, we are urged to embrace our unique qualities, cultivate self-confidence, and take the lead in various aspects of our lives–whether it’s health, career, relationships, personal development, or entrepreneurial pursuits. It's a call for everyone to rely on their inner strength and forge one's path with conviction and empowered decision-making. This is a time to align thoughts with actions, sowing the seeds for future accomplishments.
The energy of the number 1 resonates with self-discovery, anointing February 2024 as fertile ground for introspection, self-awareness, and personal growth. We are encouraged to explore the profound recesses of our minds, unraveling the intricacies of our identities to reveal untapped potentials and dormant talents. As a prime number, 1 embodies a sense of purity and wholeness. This purity serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards genuine self-expression, authenticity, and integrity in our endeavors.
(Speaking of unlocking hidden potentials and talents, have you taken the opportunity to complete your personal Astrology and Numerology Worksheets within your Astral Planner yet?)
Third Quarter Moon in Scorpio: Unveiling Hidden Truths (Feb 2)
Our journey commences with the Third Quarter Moon in Scorpio, an astrological event urging us to plumb the depths of our psyches. Drawing parallels with Scorpio's scorpion motif, this lunar phase prompts a contemplative exploration of metamorphosis, akin to the allegorical shedding of skin within Greek mythology.
Mercury Enters Aquarius: Unleashing Innovations (Feb 5)
On February 5, the eloquent Mercury, the messenger of the gods, assumes residence in the visionary realms of Aquarius. This astral alignment becomes a conduit for intellectual curiosity and fosters innovative thinking. This period encourages us to explore unconventional ideas, communicate with a forward-thinking perspective, and embrace the power of collective intellect in shaping the future.
New Moon in Aquarius: Seeding the Vision (Feb 9)
Aquarius, the enigmatic water-bearer of the zodiac, presides over this lunation. Governed by Uranus, the planet of innovation and change, Aquarius heralds a cosmic era characterized by the spirit of humanitarianism, collective consciousness, and forward-thinking perspectives. The Aquarius New Moon becomes a cosmic catalyst for seeding ideas that transcend the boundaries of the mundane.
This Aquarius New Moon is especially potent because it aligns with the energy of Aquarius during its designated season. Picture this celestial event as a congress of cosmic visionaries, where each participant contributes a fragment of a larger dream. Under the influence of the Aquarius New Moon, the universe beckons us to engage our minds and partake in collaborative problem-solving. Uranus, the ruling planet of Aquarius, imparts an unseen force to this lunation. It challenges us to transcend limitations, break free from the shackles of the status quo, and embrace the revolutionary energy required for lasting transformation. Allow this unseen force to guide your intentions towards groundbreaking ideas and paradigm shifts.
In Roman mythology, Aquarius finds resonance with Ganymede, the divine cupbearer of the gods. This symbolism reflects the Aquarian archetype of the rebel and visionary, challenging societal norms to pour forth the elixir of transformative ideas. In pop culture, characters like Tony Stark (Iron Man) embody the spirit of Aquarius – unconventional thinkers who reshape their worlds through innovation. Or consider the likes of Steve Jobs, an embodiment of Aquarian energy, who envisioned a world transformed by technology.
Under the influence of the Aquarius New Moon, the universe urges us to envision the future we desire. This is not just a lunar phase; it's a cosmic call to seed aspirations that transcend the ordinary. Use this lunation to act on your own groundbreaking ideas.
A Practical Guide for the Aquarius New Moon:
Capture your visionary aspirations in a journal. Articulate them with clarity, allowing the written word to solidify your intentions.
Mars Enters Aquarius: Igniting Passion for Change (Feb 13)
As the fiery Mars, archetypal god of war in the Roman pantheon, enters Aquarius on February 13, a dynamic energy infuses our actions with a sense of purpose. This celestial fusion encourages us to channel our energy into social causes, innovation, and collaborative efforts, propelling us toward meaningful change.Use this period to pursue goals aligned with social justice and progressive ideals, embodying the revolutionary spirit of Aquarius.
First Quarter Moon in Taurus: Grounding Dreams into Reality (Feb 16)
The First Quarter Moon in Taurus on February 16 invites us to ground ourselves and cultivate stability amid change. This lunar phase encourages us to cultivate unyielding determination and resilience amid transformative tides. Taurus, an earth sign, invites us to cultivate patience and resilience, transforming aspirations into steady, enduring foundations.
Venus Enters Aquarius: Love for Humanity (Feb 16)
Simultaneously, Venus, the goddess of love, graces the realms of Aquarius on the same day as the First Quarter Moon, infusing social interactions with harmonious resonance. Our affections extend beyond personal connections to encompass a love for humanity. This period fosters connections based on shared ideals, urging us to foster connections that celebrate individuality and shared values, embodying the essence of Venus within the humanitarian ethos of Aquarius.
Sun Enters Pisces: A Dive into the Sublime (Feb 18)
On February 18, the sun moves into the final sign of the zodiac, Pisces, inaugurating an epoch of heightened spiritual illumination and artistic transcendence. A poetic and emotionally intelligent sign, Pisces invites us to connect with the sublime, embracing creativity, compassion, and the unseen realms of existence. Ruled by Neptune, the god of the sea, deepening its association with mysticism and boundless spiritual insights. This planetary influence enhances our growth, inviting us to delve into the depths of our emotions and embrace a profound connection with the divine.
Mercury Enters Pisces: Communicating with Intuition (Feb 23)
Mercury's transition into Pisces on February 23 heralds a period of heightened intuitive cognition and empathetic communication. This period encourages us to express ourselves with heightened sensitivity, embracing the language of symbols and subtle nuances in our interactions.
Full Moon in Virgo: Illuminating Practical Wisdom (Feb 24)
The month concludes with the Full Moon in Virgo on February 24. Virgo, an earth sign, encourages us to balance dreams with pragmatism, emphasizing the importance of balance between the practical and the spiritual. Each Full Moon marks a moment of culmination and fruition, and in Virgo's meticulous embrace, this lunar event becomes a call to refine the details of our lives. It's a time for meticulous planning, organization, and the pursuit of excellence. Virgo's energy prompts us to discern what is essential and refine our approaches to achieve greater efficiency.
Amidst the precision-seeking ambiance of Virgo, embrace mindful communication—a vital aspect of this earth sign's influence. Practice mindful and precise communication in both personal and professional interactions. Ensure that your words align with your intentions.
In modern pop culture, the archetype of the meticulous investigator or detective often mirrors Virgo's attention to detail. Think of characters like Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot—individuals who use their analytical minds to solve complex puzzles. During this Full Moon, scrutinize your life with a discerning eye and cultivate precision.
A Practical Guide for the Virgo Full Moon:
Evaluate Your Daily Routine: Assess your daily habits and routines. Virgo favors routines that enhance productivity and well-being. Identify areas for improvement and streamline your schedule for optimal efficiency.
Relevant Planner Section: Read our blog posts “How to Make the Most of The Astral Planner Daily Pages” and “The Art of Time Blocking and Managing your Schedule” for some inspiration and tips on how to structure the daily pages within your planner.
Health and Wellness: Virgo governs the domain of health. Use this Full Moon to reevaluate your well-being practices. Consider incorporating practical and sustainable changes to support your physical and mental health.
Relevant Planner Section: Self-Care Habits and Practices (Available in the Executive Daily Planner Only)
R E C E I V E the A T H E N A E U M in your I N B O X
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