We’re halfway through 2024. As a teacher, I can’t help but think, “What grade would you give 2024 so far?”
How would you assess it?
For me, I initially thought about using my five strategic pillars. Nope. That’s the business-not me. I continue to work on separating the two.
Then I thought, “How about my happiness level?” Nope. That’s too subjective.
And then I wondered, “How about my WORDup-PEACE?” This one felt just right.
What did PEACE look like the first half?
Bali. Returning to my happy place. Reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.
Writing a children’s book. Turning MOXIE into the main character of her own series.
![](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F81874eb2-8561-4431-8af6-2226c7738d6d_1200x1599.jpeg)
Sharing my writing in front of audiences big and small. Continuing to put more women in power and keep them there.
Not overaccommodating. This is a curious thing I’m working on; it’s challenging and magical.
A new space. With an office view of children playing, lots of natural light, and a place where Michael and I can create community.
This is my Moxie Moment. Paying attention to how PEACE has shown up, how I’ve intentionally created it, and how it will make me MOXIER the rest of 2024.
What does your second half look like?
If your WORDup is working for you-use it. If you forgot it, bring it back. If it’s not working, choose another one. If you don’t have one, find a word or phrase that inspires, challenges, and makes you more of who you are.
What does PEACE look like the rest of the year?
Figuring out my workflow. I’m going to start with July; it’s traditionally a slower month. Rather than freak out, I’m going to set July hours where I give my permission to enjoy the pause, get outside, and have fun! Lots of it.
Travel. In September, I’m flying in and out of Brussels for three weeks, getting my EU passport in Luxembourg, and the rest is open. Freedom brings me PEACE.
![](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F3c993d85-3502-4d9a-b8c2-dee72603c889_3024x4032.jpeg)
Creating a writing flow. PEACE looks like a writing ritual and focusing on a few projects-like my essay, “If scars could speak,” MOXIE the picture book, and sharing Quit Being So Good more intentionally.
A road trip with the top down. Sun, adventure, and the open road bring me PEACE. I’m planning a MOXIE tour to the Texas Book Festival in November. Am I in your path? If so, I’d LOVE to see you!
Sparkle. If I’m at PEACE, I will allow myself to shine more, feel more comfortable shining, and be ok when others don’t like it.
And what does PEACE feel like?
It feels like sprinkles on the cupcake. When day turns to night. Sunshine on my face. Watching children play. And the comfort of a good friend.
Peace out.
MOXIEchallenge: What will your WORDup do for you the rest of 2024?
Dear Moxie,
Happy Halfway! How has your year been so far?
How will you use your WORDup to enjoy the rest of your year?
Record your thoughts, share them with somebody you trust, and comment below.
Until next time, MOXIEon! Kristi
PS. For all paid subscribers, thankyou for believing in the moxie. Our first MOXIEmixer will be on Sunday, July 21 from 6.00pm-7.00pm CDT. We will meet each other, checkin on how our year has been going so far, and explore what the rest of the year looks like. The link and agenda are coming July 14th.