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RV Mendoza

How to have a great spring

Strict goals make me shut down, but putting a little intentional energy in one direction helps immensely. Grab a calendar. Let’s get started.

Written by RV Mendoza.

Quarterly planning for the earnest at heart (with worksheet!)

It’s amazing how much can change once you apply a little intention.
It’s amazing how much can change once you apply a little intention.

Originally published in my Substack: First Draft Thoughts with RV Mendoza.

Ever since I started doing this, my life feels different.

It’s like I’m actually and active participant in my life, rather than a passive passenger.

Strict goals make me shut down, but putting a little intentional energy in one direction helps immensely.

Since I started doing this, my life changed for the better.

I took classes I kept putting off. I went on a work trip I actually wanted. I even helped friends plan their next quarter.

Grab your computer, calendar, or a pen and paper.

Let’s get started:

Quarterly Planning Worksheet

Action Menu

Set up a separate space. If a task pops into your head at any point, drop it into the Action Menu so it doesn’t interrupt the exercise. Try to keep it actionable.

You can always go back to this action menu in the next three months when you’re feeling aimless.

Ex: “Replace HVAC Filter, search for sewing classes, etc”

Rose, Bud, Thorn

Reflect on your previous three months.

  • Rose: what went really well
  • Bud: what has potential you want to grow
  • Thorn: what drained you or didn’t work

Known Dates + Life Events

  • What do you already know is happening this quarter?
  • Birthdays, travel, weddings, holidays, busy work periods, family commitments

What You Want to Maintain

  • What in your life is already working that you want to keep steady?
  • Routines, relationships, creative practice, health habits, financial habits

Personal Theme for the Quarter

The reason we do anything is because we think we’ll be happier once we have it. Understanding the essence of our desires, gives us a compass we can always go back to.

  • If you had one personal theme for the quarter, what would it be?
  • Satisfaction, calm. creative output, health, connection

Aspirational Plans (Trips, Experiences, Learnings)

  • What do you want to learn or get better at this quarter?

    • a skill, a class, a hobby, a professional area

  • Is there a trip or experience you want this quarter?

    • weekend trip, visiting friends, concert, retreat

Then look back through everything.

Pull a few more things into your Action Menu and start there.

What’s one thing you already know you want this quarter?