Is It Time for a Sabbatical?

I recently bought a succulent plant. This was my way of quieting myself and having a little sabbatical.

A sabbatical is an intentional break from your regular life.

September has a way of whispering instead of shouting for me. Because, well, Amazing August is over. (insert crying face)

While summer blazes with noise and motion, September leaned in softly—inviting me to slow my pace, hush my mind, and breathe differently. It’s the month that felt like a gentle hand on my shoulder saying, “Come away for a moment.”

So, I bought a succulent plant. This is the type of plant that needs very low maintenance. And is practically self-sustaining! Definitely, my type of plant! (insert cheering face)

Less noise.

Less rush.

Less interference.

I speak to myself often and say: Jennifer, when your ideas swirl like a storm, when your creativity is both a blessing and a burden, a September Sabbatical becomes more than rest.

It becomes Recovery.

Renewal.

Re‑centering.

For the rest of September, I'm going to make it a season to STORE what nourishes me, RELEASE what drains me, and GROW at a pace that honors my soul.

May I invite you to join me?

If you're a teacher, ask God for a sense of order and calm to your class.

If you're a mom, ask God for strength and peace to manage all of your tasks.

If you're a businesswoman, ask God for truth and wisdom to guide your steps.

And if you're a woman like me, may God help you to FOCUS on what lies ahead.

“In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.” Isaiah 30:15

FOCUS THOUGHT

“My mind is allowed to slow down. My spirit is allowed to breathe. My pace is allowed to change.”

FOCUS STEP

▪️ Create a QUIET daily ritual

▪️ Choose one small, repeatable act that signals rest to your body and spirit.

It could be:

> Sitting with a succulent or other plant on your desk and breathing for 3 minutes

> Reading one Scripture verse slowly, not rushing to finish the chapter

> Taking a 10‑minute walk without your phone

> Drinking tea in silence before starting your day

> Praying and worshipping while you're in traffic

The power is not in the size of the ritual—it’s in the consistency.

IT'S TIME TO FOCUS!