Why it matters: When leaders slow down to create space for novelty, they gain the clarity to separate what feels urgent from what's truly important, and the perspective to prioritize accordingly.
I might miss a once-in-eleven-years opportunity.
On Tuesday, I read that 2026 will be the most perfect for viewing the Northern Lights
“I’ll try to go!” I thought and put it on my novelty list for next year. But I didn’t think about what it would mean to get there- the planning, the financials, the coordination in country, the waiting, the taking time off work, and most importantly… the timing.
It’s said that March will be the best month. March! As a person who thinks January is already around the corner, March is much too soon and too far all at the same time.
Most people I know live in two different timelines- the one that slips by with deadlines and franticness of accomplishing, and the one that holds all the “what ifs”. What if I’d done it anyway? What if I had taken the time? What if I had gotten someone to do it with me?
I’ve decided I’m done with “what if”. I’m done with living the life that’s racing by, instead of intentionally choosing the one that will slow time down.
That’s where novelty comes in.
Novel experiences help to slow down our time, giving us things to look forward to, to be excited about, to connect with others over, and to frame with the routine of our day-to-day.
In 2026, I'm choosing living over producing. I'm starting the Year of Novelty - prioritizing community, connection, and joy in small things.
Join me! Together we can find the balance for what we put our value into as we walk through life.
Maybe I’ll be able to see the Lights after all. Or maybe I’ll discover my own lights right in my backyard.
Talk soon,
Rachel
Leadership trainer, novelty junkie, and human being
P.S. My blacklight painting this summer was inspired by the Northern Lights before I even heard about the 2026 greatness. Maybe it was foreshadowing my desire to go...
Dig a little deeper: Check out "Why 2026 is your last chance to see the Northern Lights at their peak" to read all about the 2026 opportunity to see the 'best' lights.
What’s next: There's a lot of planning for how to end the year strong. But while we plan, three months are passing by. What will you prioritize now instead of waiting for January?"
Want More?
There's resources on the website for you to download, from free conflict resolution guides, to courses on human-centric leadership, and much more!
Feel free to explore them all.
Thanks for joining me on my search for novelty and one human-centric leaders's journey towards a more balanced life.
