Welcome to September…
Karen and Jay share the excitement of new beginnings as we open a new chapter upon the arrival of September and the fall season.
There is a crispness in the air – an excitement. When the fall season kicks off right after Labor Day, and it’s like hitting the reset button. This is a time for ‘new beginnings.’ Whether you’re about to start a renewed effort at work, or kids starting a new chapter at school – the ‘serious world’ is set to restart.
We know this well at the Sunshine Report – as two of our family members are ending a chapter and are about to embark on the next adventure. Perhaps this is happening with members of your family as well. For us, our son, Lincoln, is retiring from the Navy after nine years where he has been flying the F-18 and is now looking ahead to his next career. As well as for our Executive Director, Brian Hettrick - whose son, Brother Celestine (Ben), was recently ordained a priest and is set to start his role in the Saint Anselm community. Both young men are pictured below – and like so many of us – are set to approach the world with optimism and gusto.
It's pretty clear - summer’s laid-back vibe is over, and it’s time to dive back into the grind – albeit a positive grind. As kids are back in school, and parents are juggling drop-offs and pick-ups again. Work ramps up too, with meetings and deadlines coming fast. It’s a shift from lazy weekends to busy schedules, but there’s something exciting about it. It’s like the world is waking up from a summer nap.
The change in pace is noticeable. Gone are the slow, sun-filled afternoons. Instead, days get packed with activities. Think about it: this first week after Labor Day feels like a race. Stores start rolling out holiday decorations, and work starts buzzing with new projects. It’s a mix of urgency and excitement as everyone gears up for the end of the year. Whether it’s getting ready for a busy season at work or tackling new school routines, the energy is palpable.
And, when you think about it, September isn’t just about jumping back into the usual routine. It’s a perfect time for fresh starts. If you’ve been considering kicking off a healthier lifestyle, why wait for January? Fall is a great time to make those changes. Maybe you start jogging in the cooler weather or cooking more home meals. It’s a chance to set new goals and take charge of your life, without waiting for a new year.
Work and life pick up speed, and that can be exhausting. But there’s also a thrill to it. The back-to-school rush and the holiday planning create a buzz. It’s a busy time, sure, but there’s also satisfaction in pushing through it. You see progress in your work, and your kids are hitting new milestones. It’s exhausting but also energizing. It’s all part of the ride.
So, as September rolls in, embrace the shift. The days are shorter, the pace is quicker, and the holidays are on the horizon. It’s a chance to turn the page and tackle new challenges. Use this momentum to start something new, push forward in your job, or make personal changes. It’s a busy month, but it’s also full of potential and excitement.
Embracing New Beginnings, New Endeavors
Let’s get excited about the vibrant fall season and the new endeavors that are about to begin. Whether it's the start of a new school year, a career, or even a refreshed approach to business activities, the start of September kicks off a sense of renewal and opportunity that is vital for the human spirit and mind. In New Hampshire, the start of the school year symbolizes fresh beginnings for students and educators alike, fostering growth, creativity, and learning. This period is especially significant as it sets the tone for academic achievement, social development, and personal growth. For instance, studies show that students who start the year with enthusiasm and a positive mindset are more likely to succeed academically and develop strong social skills.
Similarly, businesses often take a summer break from after-hours events, only to return with a refreshed schedule in the fall. This seasonal restart brings people together, creating energy, excitement, and a burst of creativity within the community. These events provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas, enhancing both personal and professional growth.
When it comes to embarking on a new career, the excitement stems from the potential for personal and professional development. In the U.S., career changes are common, with a recent survey indicating that about 30 percent of workers aged 25 to 34 had changed jobs within the past year. This statistic highlights the fluid nature of the job market and the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.
New beginnings, whether in education, career, or community engagement, are crucial for mental health as they provide a sense of purpose and direction. Psychologists suggest that engaging in new activities stimulates the brain, enhances mood, and promotes overall well-being. The anticipation and challenges of new experiences help build resilience and foster a growth mindset, which are essential for overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success.
I know that for myself, I look forward to this time of year and the various events I often attend. It’s a great opportunity to meet with old friends but also develop new connections – which often lead to new exciting paths for me and them. We encourage you to embrace new endeavors—whether academic, professional, or through renewed social interactions in the community—all of which play a crucial role in personal development, mental health, and the human spirit. These fresh starts not only invigorate our lives but also contribute to our ongoing journey toward fulfillment and achievement.
A New Chapter in Health, Food, and Fitness
Last week in the Sunshine Report – we began a renewed focus on health and fitness. Not just for each of us as individuals – but collectively for us as a nation. We have become a country where too many Americans are out of shape – not healthy and not happy. Too much reliance on heavily processed foods and prescription drugs – combined with sedentary lifestyles – spending too much time indoors - glued to our smart phones, video games and more.
In contrast, to maintain our leadership as a strong country – we need to recommit ourselves to health and fitness – in body, mind, spirit and soul. Filled with vigor and vitality. Embracing life and all it has to offer. So as September arrives, it's a perfect time to consider a fresh start, especially when it comes to our health, food, and fitness. Just as the fall season marks a transition, we too can embrace new habits that lead to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
This month, think about how small, manageable changes can significantly impact your well-being. Start by revisiting your diet: incorporate more whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, into your meals. Experiment with seasonal ingredients; autumn brings a bounty of nutrient-rich produce, such as apples, pumpkins, and squash, that can inspire delicious, healthy recipes.
Fitness is another area ripe for renewal. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting, September is a great time to set new fitness goals. Take advantage of the cooler weather to explore outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or jogging. If you're short on time, even a daily 20-minute walk can make a difference. The key is to find an activity you enjoy and commit to doing it regularly.
Lastly, remember that health is more than just physical fitness. It's also about mental and emotional well-being. Consider incorporating mindfulness practices, like meditation or yoga, into your routine to help reduce stress and improve your overall outlook.
This September, embrace a new chapter in your health journey. Small changes made today can lead to lasting improvements, setting the stage for a more vibrant, energized you. Even though I try to do all three of these, I know I can improve especially as I’m often seated whether in meetings, at my computer or even on a plane. Plus, I know that moving is a key element to better mental health. Besides getting up and moving around, the 20 20 20 Rule is a great method to help eye strain - every 20 minutes stare at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Give it a try or create your own tiny habits of change. But, whatever you do, get excited about life – especially, your physical health and fitness. In so doing, without question, you will begin to experience an enhanced self-esteem, a burst of positive energy and an increased zest for life.
Positive Profile of the Week: Lisa Marsh Ryerson – President of SNHU!
This week we are delighted to highlight an innovative leader, who is set to embark on a new and exciting chapter – Lisa Marsh Ryerson, the newly appointed President of Southern New Hampshire University.
Lisa Marsh Ryerson is a distinguished executive who has been a forceful advocate for education, social impact, and aging issues. Prior to her current role as President, she assumed the role of Chancellor at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) last year, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to transformative education.
Lisa's journey to SNHU was marked by a series of impactful roles both in education as well as philanthropy. Before joining SNHU, she served as President of AARP Foundation, where she championed innovative solutions to address issues of poverty, isolation, and hunger among older adults. Her work at AARP Foundation highlighted her ability to lead large-scale initiatives with a focus on improving lives through strategic partnerships and programs.
At SNHU, Lisa’s leadership is defined by her belief in the power of education to change lives. She is particularly focused on expanding access to education for nontraditional students, a mission that aligns with SNHU’s reputation as a leader in online and competency-based education. Under her guidance, the university continues to grow its reach and impact, serving students across the globe.
Lisa’s own words reflect her dedication to this mission: "Education is the great equalizer. It opens doors, creates opportunities, and transforms lives. At SNHU, we are committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to achieve their dreams."
Her motivational leadership style and commitment to social justice inspire both students and colleagues alike. Lisa Marsh Ryerson’s vision for SNHU is one of inclusion, innovation, and impact, ensuring that the university remains at the forefront of higher education, continuously evolving to meet the needs of a changing world.
In 2016 while president of the AARP Foundation, Lisa participated in the Baldrige Executive Fellows Program along with 15 other senior leaders completing a year-long journey exploring leadership through the Baldrige Excellence Framework, a global standard for performance excellence. Through interactive sessions, site visits to Baldrige Award-winning organizations, and discussions with CEOs and senior leaders, the Fellows examined best practices in strategic planning, workforce engagement, innovation, and performance measurement across various sectors. They developed valuable peer networks and gained insights into leadership strategies that stimulate innovation and achieve organizational success through using a systemic lens which is a foundational element of the Baldrige program.
As a Fellow, Lisa Marsh Ryerson, now the new President of Southern New Hampshire University, will leverage this experience to enhance the university's strategic planning, foster a culture of excellence, and implement innovative practices to further drive sustainable growth and academic success. We wish her the very best in this extremely important and exciting new role.
Positive Quote of the Week: September – New Beginning
The September months are a magical time to reboot, to catch our breath after summer, and to step into the year’s final quarter with renewed energy."
— Mandy Hale
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