October 17, 2024 • 19 mins
50 Journal Prompts For Those Reflecting on November
What if November could be the most powerful month for reflection and growth? Join us as we explore the unique pause this month offers between the year's end and the holiday rush. With Lestallion's curated journal prompts, we guide you through a journey of introspection that sets the stage for a more intentional December and a purposeful new year. From describing a November day through the senses to imagining a fictional character's first experience of the month, we promise you'll discover engaging ways to reflect deeply and meaningfully.
Feel the invigorating crisp air and savor the sensory details like the smell of damp leaves and distant wood smoke, as we uncover the beauty and introspective potential of a typical November day. By observing nature's cycles of growth, decay, and renewal, we draw insightful parallels to our own lives. Learn how mindfulness and presence can transform your daily routine and why it's vital to appreciate the fleeting moments of beauty that November offers. We also discuss the seasonal shifts in productivity and how to harness these changes for personal growth.
As we wrap up, we dive into the transformative power of storytelling and self-discovery through unique journal prompts. Discover how to stay mindful and fully engaged during the holiday chaos, and why setting long-term intentions is more impactful than fleeting New Year's resolutions. Reflect on your values and goals to make intentional choices and balance the urge to hibernate with the need to set achievable goals. Embrace this month of reflection to build the future you aspire to, with Lestallion's insightful prompts guiding you every step of the way.
LeStallion offers premium PU leather journal notebooks for writing, dedicated to all those who are pursuing their dreams and goals, or nurturing their personal development and mental health.
For More Info on LeStallion, check out:
https://lestallion.com/
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Okay, so you want to do some serious reflection this
November?
Right, but just hearing thinkabout your year is about as
motivating as like a soggynapkin at the bottom of the
takeout bag.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
It's true, not exactly inspiring.
Speaker 1 (00:13):
And then someone's like here's 50 journal prompts
Go wild.
Speaker 2 (00:17):
Yeah, that's just overwhelming.
Speaker 1 (00:19):
That's Lestellian for you.
Those fancy journals they makeKind of tempting, but don't
worry.
Today we are diving into theirmega list of November reflection
pops and extracting the goodstuff just for you.
Speaker 2 (00:32):
Because who needs a giant to-do list of
introspection?
That's not reflection, that's asecond job.
Speaker 1 (00:36):
No kidding.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
We need focused reflection and, honestly,
november it's kind of perfectfor that weird little pocket of
time where the year's crazinessis winding down but we're not
quite drowning in holiday stuffyet.
Speaker 1 (00:48):
You're right, it is a good in-between time and you
know what I appreciate aboutLestallion's approach here.
They're not just saying recapyour year, the end.
It's almost like they wantNovember to be your secret
weapon.
Speaker 2 (00:59):
Your secret weapon.
Speaker 1 (01:00):
I like that yeah, like, do this right and you're
going to have a better December,a better start to the new year.
But I'm getting ahead of myself.
What struck me about theseprompts?
Some of them are so specific.
It's not just the usualgratitude list stuff.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
Absolutely.
Specificity is key when itcomes to meaningful reflection.
For example, one prompt asksyou to describe a typical
November day for you.
But get this.
They want you to focus on thesenses.
Oh interesting she's like paintus a picture with your words
rather than just giving aschedule recap.
Speaker 1 (01:29):
Which, let's be honest, way more fun to both
write and read.
And then there's this one whatfoods do you start craving as
the weather gets colder?
Seems simple, but it made mestop and think.
Like why do our cravings shiftwith the seasons?
Is it our biology, nostalgia,pure comfort-seeking?
Speaker 2 (01:47):
Right, You're tapping into something primal.
Almost Our ancestors didn'thave supermarkets.
You know what you craved, hadto tie into what was available,
what actually kept you alive.
Speaker 1 (01:58):
Makes you think.
Speaker 2 (01:59):
So, Lestallion, they're not just prompting
journaling, they're prompting usto think differently about
everyday stuff.
And they've got prompts to getthose creative wheels turning
too.
There's one where they ask youto imagine a fictional character
experiencing their firstNovember.
I love that one.
Speaker 1 (02:13):
So creative.
Speaker 2 (02:14):
Right.
It forces you outside your ownperspective.
If you had to explain Novemberto an alien or someone who'd
never experienced it, whatdetails would you even pick?
It makes you reexamine what'sfamiliar.
Speaker 1 (02:26):
Appreciate it in a new way.
I like that.
It's like hey, remember thatchildlike wonder we used to have
about well, everything.
And speaking of things we oftenoverlook, lestallion's big on
the classic combo yeah, lookback, then look forward.
So gratitude, accomplishments,all that good stuff?
I think so, but then it's intogoals, habits, you know, the
(02:47):
usual self-improvement suspects.
Speaker 2 (02:49):
But here's where I think their prompts are sneakier
than they first appear.
They don't just say be grateful, they ask you to identify what
you're grateful for.
Yeah, and this is the importantbit, how that influences your
choices going forward.
Speaker 1 (03:00):
So it's action-oriented gratitude.
It's got to do something, notjust sit there looking pretty.
Speaker 2 (03:06):
Precisely, and it's the same with the goal-setting
prompts.
They push you to break thosebig, scary ambitions down into
smaller, actionable steps.
Speaker 1 (03:14):
Which, let's be real, is way less intimidating than
change your whole life byJanuary 1st.
Speaker 2 (03:19):
Exactly.
You don't have to climb thewhole mountain tomorrow, let's
just get you to base camp thismonth.
Have to climb the wholemountain tomorrow.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
Let's just get you to base camp this month.
Love that analogy.
Now, you mentioned earlier howNovember is a unique time for
reflection, which I'd neverreally thought about before.
What is it about this monthwhich, let's be honest, is kind
of the Jan Brady of the calendarthat makes it so perfect for
this kind of deep dive?
Speaker 2 (03:38):
Okay, so November not exactly known for being the
most exciting time?
You're right, it's true, butthink about it this way the
summer excitement has faded,we're not yet hit with the
craziness of the holidays andthere's this undeniable shift in
the air, you know.
Speaker 1 (03:54):
Yeah, it's definitely got a vibe.
Speaker 2 (03:56):
Days are shorter, the nights are longer.
It's almost like nature itselfis telling us to slow down, turn
inward a little bit.
The world's hitting the pausebutton Exactly, and whether we
consciously realize it or not,seasons do impact us
psychologically.
They do November in its quietway.
It becomes a potent time formaking intentional shifts before
(04:16):
bam, we get swept up in holidaychaos.
Speaker 1 (04:19):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (04:20):
It's an opportunity right now to hit the reset
button on our values, ourpriorities, to set the stage for
a more intentional December andbeyond that even.
Speaker 1 (04:30):
OK, I'm liking where this is going.
So we're talking about theoverall vibe of these listellian
prompts.
Why November is a good backdrop, but let's dive into a specific
example.
See how this actually works.
What do you say?
Speaker 2 (04:40):
I'm game, let's do it .
Speaker 1 (04:42):
OK, how about we tackle that one you mentioned
earlier?
Describe a typical November day.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
Sounds good.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
Seems deceptively simple, but I have a feeling it
can uncover some interestingstuff.
Speaker 2 (04:51):
Oh for sure, it's all in the details.
Let's see what we can dig up.
Okay, For me a typical Novemberday it starts with that crisp
air hitting my face as soon as Istep outside it's invigorating,
almost like a wake-up call fromnature itself.
I can already feel it and thatsmell of damp leaves, right
Mixed with maybe the faintestscent of wood smoke from
(05:13):
somewhere in the distance.
It's like the whole world isexhaling after a really long hot
summer.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
You were speaking my language.
It's amazing how these littlesensory details pop up when you
actually stop to think aboutthem.
I mean, usually I'm rushing offto work, not composing poetry
about the breeze, but even thenthere's a different energy in
the air.
People seem a little moreintrospective, you know.
Speaker 2 (05:33):
I've noticed that too .
Like we're all collectivelybracing ourselves just a little
bit.
The holidays are coming.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Exactly.
And then there's the light.
By late afternoon, the sun'salready starting to dip below
the horizon, casting this warmgolden glow on everything.
It's that perfect twilight hourthat feels both magical and
melancholic at the same time.
Does that make sense?
Speaker 2 (05:55):
Totally.
That twilight hour in Novemberis special.
The whole world just holds itsbreath for a moment.
It's suspended between day andnight.
For me it's a really potenttime for quiet moment.
It's suspended between day andnight.
For me it's a really potenttime for quiet reflection.
You kind of let go of the day'sanxieties and just surrender to
that stillness.
Speaker 1 (06:11):
I love that.
It's so true, isn't it?
Just this one simple prompt canspark such different but
equally valid reflections.
Speaker 2 (06:18):
It really speaks to the power of individual
experience, right?
What resonates for one personmight not have the same impact
on another, and that's fine.
It's all about finding thosepersonal connections, those
unique threads that speak toyour own experience, your own
journey.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
I like that.
So what about you?
What does a typical Novemberday look like for you?
When you strip away all thenoise and focus on those sensory
details, what comes to mind?
Speaker 2 (06:41):
Well, unlike you, I'm lucky enough to work from home,
so my November mornings tend tobe a bit more, shall we say,
leisurely.
I'm jealous it usually startswith a cup of coffee, maybe a
good book, and there's somethingso comforting about curling up
on the couch with a warm blanket, getting lost in a story as the
sun slowly comes up and then,as the day unfolds, I find
(07:02):
myself kind of gravitatingtowards tasks that require more
focus, more concentration.
Speaker 1 (07:08):
So November is productivity time for you.
Speaker 2 (07:10):
It's true, For me there's a certain clarity that
comes with that crisp autumn air, and it really helps me focus
on work on creative projects.
It's like my mind is mirroringthe natural world, shedding
distractions and zeroing in onwhat matters.
Speaker 1 (07:24):
That's fascinating to me because I'm definitely a
spring and summer productivityperson, but I can see how that
seasonal shift, that slowingdown, could actually lend itself
to really focused work.
Speaker 2 (07:35):
It's counterintuitive , isn't it?
Speaker 1 (07:36):
It is.
Speaker 2 (07:37):
One thing that struck me about your description was
how you mentioned those fleetingmoments of beauty, like that
twilight hour we talked about,and it made me think about how
this prompt, in a way, isencouraging us to slow down and
really savor those moments,something, honestly, we often
forget to do in the rush ofdaily life.
Speaker 1 (07:55):
Oh, 100 percent.
It's so easy to get so caughtup in the to-do list, the hustle
, that you miss those littlethings, those little details.
I think you're right, thoughthe stallion is prompting us to
be more present.
Speaker 2 (08:09):
Exactly.
And what better time topractice that presence than in
November, as we transition intothe holiday season which, let's
face it, often feels anythingbut present.
Speaker 1 (08:19):
Right, it's like they're giving us a head start
on mindfulness training, butdisguised as this fun journaling
exercise.
Speaker 2 (08:26):
Maybe that's their secret agenda, but I think it's
brilliant, because when youlearn to appreciate those small
moments of beauty, even justnotice them, it changes how you
experience everything.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
Oh for sure, Like you're training yourself to find
joy in the everyday, even whenthings are tough.
Speaker 2 (08:42):
And, speaking of things that can be tough, we've
talked a lot about that lookingback aspect of these prompts,
but Lestallion is also big onlooking ahead.
Speaker 1 (08:50):
Absolutely, and I think that's where the real
magic happens, don't you think?
Because reflecting on the pastis only half of the equation.
The other half is using thosereflections to consciously
create the future you wantExactly.
It's not enough to just thinkabout your year, right yeah, the
real magic happens when you usethose reflections to actually
shape the next one.
But let's be real 50 prompts,that's a lot to process.
(09:13):
So today we're doing the heavylifting, cherry picking some
more of the most intriguing onesfrom Lestallion's list.
Speaker 2 (09:20):
And I think you'd be surprised by how, these
seemingly simple prompts, theycan really unlock some profound
insights, ready to dive back in.
Speaker 1 (09:27):
Born ready, hit me with your first pick.
Speaker 2 (09:29):
Okay, let's start with this one.
What changes in nature do younotice during November?
At first glance, it might seemlike just a straightforward
observation exercise.
Speaker 1 (09:39):
Yeah, like write down what you see.
Speaker 2 (09:40):
Right, but I think it goes much deeper than that.
Speaker 1 (09:42):
I can see that, yeah, it's like yeah, okay, the
leaves are changing color, butwhat's the deeper significance
of that whole transformation?
Speaker 2 (09:49):
Exactly, it's about connecting with the natural
rhythms of life, with thatcyclical nature of growth, decay
and renewal.
Speaker 1 (09:56):
It's like nature's giving us a masterclass and
letting go.
Speaker 2 (09:59):
Precisely, and that can be a really powerful
metaphor for our own lives, youknow, especially as we're
approaching the end of the year.
Speaker 1 (10:06):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (10:07):
What are we ready to release?
What old patterns, old beliefsare we clinging to that maybe
aren't serving us anymore?
Speaker 1 (10:13):
Whoa.
Ok, that got deep fast.
I like it.
It's like those naturedocumentaries they zoom in on a
single leaf falling and suddenlyyou're contemplating the
meaning of life.
Speaker 2 (10:22):
Right.
And who knows, maybe byobserving those subtle shifts in
nature we'll gain a whole newperspective on our own.
You know, internal landscape,what parts of us are ready to
change, what's ready to kind?
Speaker 1 (10:35):
of blossom come springtime.
Okay, I'm hooked.
What other gems did you unearthfrom this treasure trove of
prompts?
Speaker 2 (10:40):
Yeah well, this one really resonated with me.
How do you plan to celebratethe new year?
And now you might be thinking,wait a minute, it's November,
Isn't that a little early?
Speaker 1 (10:49):
I have to admit, that was my first thought.
Isn't that like peak Decemberanxiety material Planning New
Year's in November?
Speaker 2 (10:56):
It could be, but I think the timing here is really
intentional, because it's notactually about planning a party
or making reservations or any ofthat.
It's about aligning youractions with your values.
How do you want to show up inthe new year?
What energy do you want toembody?
Speaker 1 (11:11):
It's like setting an intention for the kind of year
you want to have, rather thanletting it just happen to you.
Speaker 2 (11:16):
Exactly, and by starting to think about that
stuff now, in the quiet ofNovember, we give ourselves the
time and space to actually makeconscious choices, choices that
align with our deepest desires,so that we're not just reacting
to whatever the holiday rushthrows at us.
Speaker 1 (11:32):
So that you're not just swept up in the frenzy and
then wake up on January 1stwondering where the year went
and what you did with it.
Speaker 2 (11:38):
Precisely, it's about proactive planning versus
reactive scrambling.
Speaker 1 (11:43):
I'm sensing a theme here.
The Stallion is not messingaround with this whole.
November is launchpad concept.
Speaker 2 (11:50):
Not at all.
They're really encouraging usto seize this month, which is
often overlooked, as a time forintentional transformation.
Speaker 1 (11:56):
Okay, you've convinced me.
I'm ready to swap my pumpkinspice latte for a journal and
get to work on crafting my idealnew year.
Speaker 2 (12:04):
I love that energy, but before you do I have one
more prompt I want to share, andthis one's particularly
interesting Describe a fictionalcharacter experiencing their
first November.
Speaker 1 (12:13):
Ooh, yes, we touched on that one earlier.
Such a unique and unexpectedprompt.
Speaker 2 (12:18):
Right, and I think it's a testament to the power of
storytelling as a tool forself-discovery, because by
creating this character who'sexperiencing November for the
very first time, we're kind offorced to see the world through
their fresh eyes.
Speaker 1 (12:31):
It's like we're tapping into that childlike
sense of wonder again, like, ooh, what's this?
It's cold.
The leaves are doing somethingweird.
Speaker 2 (12:39):
Exactly, and in doing so we might just uncover some
hidden truths about ourselves,or at least gain a newfound
appreciation for the things wetend to take for granted.
It's a reminder that even inthe most familiar experiences
there's always something new todiscover.
I love that, If we're willingto look with open hearts and
minds, of course.
Speaker 1 (12:57):
And that's a beautiful note to end on.
Don't you think?
We've touched on a lot ofpowerful prompts today, but
there's one question that keepscoming back to me, and it's this
what one small change inspiredby all this reflection are you
ready to carry into December?
Speaker 2 (13:14):
Absolutely.
But before we get toocomfortable, remember that
lingering question I left youwith.
Speaker 1 (13:18):
Oh right, the one about that one small change we
want to carry into December.
Speaker 2 (13:22):
Exactly Because all this reflection is great, but
it's meaningless if we don'tactually put it into practice,
right?
So have you had a chance toponder that question?
What's your answer?
Speaker 1 (13:31):
You know, I have been giving it some thought and,
honestly, it wasn't easy tochoose just one, but I think the
change I want to focus on iscultivating a deeper sense of
presence, especially duringthose fleeting moments of beauty
, like we were talking aboutearlier, that we often just miss
in the rush of daily life.
Speaker 2 (13:48):
I love that it's such a powerful and important
intention, especially as we headinto the holiday season, which
often can feel anything butpresent.
Speaker 1 (13:56):
Exactly.
It's so easy to get caught upin the hustle and bustle you
know, the endless to-do lists,the pressure to make everything
perfect that we forget toactually savor the experience,
to connect with the peoplearound us, to really appreciate
the simple joys of the season.
Speaker 2 (14:12):
It's like we're so busy planning for the future
that we forget to live in thepresent moment.
Speaker 1 (14:17):
Exactly, and that's what I want.
To be different this year Iwant to slow down, pay attention
, be fully present in each andevery moment, even the chaotic
ones, right.
Speaker 2 (14:26):
I admire that intention.
It's a practice, for sure, buta worthy one, wouldn't you say?
Speaker 1 (14:30):
100%, and I think it all starts with awareness.
You know, just by being mindfulof those moments when our minds
start to race ahead or getbogged down in the past, we can
gently guide ourselves back tothe present moment.
Speaker 2 (14:44):
It's like we're training our attention muscles,
building up our capacity to bepresent even amidst distractions
.
Speaker 1 (14:51):
Oh, I love that analogy and I think it's
something we can all benefitfrom practicing regardless of
the time of year, but especiallyin November, this time of
transition, of reflection, itfeels like the perfect
opportunity to set thatintention and really start
building those presence muscles.
Speaker 2 (15:05):
Couldn't agree more.
Now I'm curious what about you?
What one small change are youhoping to carry into December?
Speaker 1 (15:11):
Back again.
More November reflection fuel,these Lestallion prompts, I'm
telling you, they sound simpleat first, but they really get
you thinking.
Speaker 2 (15:19):
It's true they're sneakily profound, like that
question we ended on last time.
You know what one small changeare you making.
That's powerful stuff, butthey've got even more where that
came from.
What else caught your eye asyou're going through this batch?
Speaker 1 (15:31):
Okay, this one totally stopped me in my tracks.
What are you looking forward tolearning or trying next?
T-november.
Speaker 2 (15:39):
Next.
Speaker 1 (15:39):
T-November they're playing the long game here.
Speaker 2 (15:41):
They are.
It's like they're asking us tovisualize our growth a year out,
not just who we are right now,but who we aspire to be.
Speaker 1 (15:50):
Right, and I think it's way more effective than
just your typical New Year'sresolutions which, let's be
honest, those things are oftenforgotten by, like February.
This is about long-term vision,you know, setting an intention
for continued exploration andgrowth.
Speaker 2 (16:03):
Yeah, so instead of I should really learn Spanish and
then giving up after threeweeks, it's more like OK,
picture yourself next toNovember.
You're casually chatting with alocal in Barcelona because your
Spamish is so good.
Speaker 1 (16:16):
Way more motivating right.
Speaker 2 (16:18):
Totally.
It's that whole like future youidea.
Don't let future you down.
They've got big plansapparently.
Speaker 1 (16:23):
Exactly, and that kind of speaks to a bigger theme
.
I've noticed with theselistalian prompts it's not just
about the past or even just thepresent moment, it's about how
those reflections actually buildthe future you want.
Speaker 2 (16:36):
And it's like they're giving you permission to dream
big, but then they also hand youthe toolkit to actually make it
happen.
Right Like that.
Okay, I've shared some of myfavorites.
What about you?
What other prompts really stoodout to you?
Okay, this one really got methinking.
How do you keep yourselfmotivated as the year winds down
?
Because, honestly, that's astruggle for a lot of people.
Speaker 1 (16:56):
Tell me about it by November.
That whole new year, new meenergy has definitely faded but
we still have like a whole monthof the year left before we get
to hit the reset button.
Speaker 2 (17:06):
Exactly so.
How do we stay motivated whenit's dark by 5 pm and all you
want to do is like hibernate?
Is it okay to embrace that cozyvibe, or do we have to fight it
?
It's the age old dilemma, right?
But that's kind of the beautyof this prompt, isn't it?
It's not about forcingproductivity or denying
ourselves rest when we need it.
It's about finding that balance, what works for you.
Speaker 1 (17:29):
Yeah, maybe for some people it eyes about setting
smaller, more achievable goalsas the year winds down.
For others, maybe it'sprioritizing self-care now so
they're actually energized goinginto the new year.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
Right, Just recognizing that motivation
naturally ebbs and flowsthroughout the year and that's
completely normal.
In fact, just knowing that canhelp you plan for it better.
It's not about being on all thetime.
It's about figuring out whatkeeps you moving forward, even
if it's at a slower pace.
Speaker 1 (17:56):
for a bit.
I like that it's permission toadjust as needed, which honestly
that's good advice for life ingeneral, not just for November.
You know, going through theseprompts with you, it strikes me
how much emphasis there is onself-awareness.
Speaker 2 (18:11):
Absolutely.
Lyscallion's not hitting youover the head with it, but
they're definitely guiding ustoward a deeper understanding of
ourselves.
Through all these interestingquestions, it's like they're
saying, hey, before you can goconquer the world, or even just
December, you got to get to knowyourself pretty well first.
Speaker 1 (18:25):
Because the more self-aware you are, the better
equipped you are to handlewhatever life or the holidays
decide to throw your way 100%,and you'll be more quick to make
choices that truly align withyour values and your goals.
Speaker 2 (18:39):
not just you know what everyone else is doing or
what you think you should bedoing.
Speaker 1 (18:43):
So, as we wrap up this deep dive into November
reflections, I think we'veunearthed a lot more than just
some journal prompts.
Speaker 2 (18:50):
We have Lestallion.
They make nice journals, that'strue, but they've also given us
a really unique framework forapproaching this time of year,
maybe even life in general, witha bit more intention.
Speaker 1 (19:01):
Who knew a stack of prompts could be so profound?
Big thanks to our listeners fortaking this deep dive with us.
Until next time.
Okay, so you want to do some serious reflection this
November?
Right, but just hearing thinkabout your year is about as
motivating as like a soggynapkin at the bottom of the
takeout bag.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
It's true, not exactly inspiring.
Speaker 1 (00:13):
And then someone's like here's 50 journal prompts
Go wild.
Speaker 2 (00:17):
Yeah, that's just overwhelming.
Speaker 1 (00:19):
That's Lestellian for you.
Those fancy journals they makeKind of tempting, but don't
worry.
Today we are diving into theirmega list of November reflection
pops and extracting the goodstuff just for you.
Speaker 2 (00:32):
Because who needs a giant to-do list of
introspection?
That's not reflection, that's asecond job.
Speaker 1 (00:36):
No kidding.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
We need focused reflection and, honestly,
november it's kind of perfectfor that weird little pocket of
time where the year's crazinessis winding down but we're not
quite drowning in holiday stuffyet.
Speaker 1 (00:48):
You're right, it is a good in-between time and you
know what I appreciate aboutLestallion's approach here.
They're not just saying recapyour year, the end.
It's almost like they wantNovember to be your secret
weapon.
Speaker 2 (00:59):
Your secret weapon.
Speaker 1 (01:00):
I like that yeah, like, do this right and you're
going to have a better December,a better start to the new year.
But I'm getting ahead of myself.
What struck me about theseprompts?
Some of them are so specific.
It's not just the usualgratitude list stuff.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
Absolutely.
Specificity is key when itcomes to meaningful reflection.
For example, one prompt asksyou to describe a typical
November day for you.
But get this.
They want you to focus on thesenses.
Oh interesting she's like paintus a picture with your words
rather than just giving aschedule recap.
Speaker 1 (01:29):
Which, let's be honest, way more fun to both
write and read.
And then there's this one whatfoods do you start craving as
the weather gets colder?
Seems simple, but it made mestop and think.
Like why do our cravings shiftwith the seasons?
Is it our biology, nostalgia,pure comfort-seeking?
Speaker 2 (01:47):
Right, You're tapping into something primal.
Almost Our ancestors didn'thave supermarkets.
You know what you craved, hadto tie into what was available,
what actually kept you alive.
Speaker 1 (01:58):
Makes you think.
Speaker 2 (01:59):
So, Lestallion, they're not just prompting
journaling, they're prompting usto think differently about
everyday stuff.
And they've got prompts to getthose creative wheels turning
too.
There's one where they ask youto imagine a fictional character
experiencing their firstNovember.
I love that one.
Speaker 1 (02:13):
So creative.
Speaker 2 (02:14):
Right.
It forces you outside your ownperspective.
If you had to explain Novemberto an alien or someone who'd
never experienced it, whatdetails would you even pick?
It makes you reexamine what'sfamiliar.
Speaker 1 (02:26):
Appreciate it in a new way.
I like that.
It's like hey, remember thatchildlike wonder we used to have
about well, everything.
And speaking of things we oftenoverlook, lestallion's big on
the classic combo yeah, lookback, then look forward.
So gratitude, accomplishments,all that good stuff?
I think so, but then it's intogoals, habits, you know, the
(02:47):
usual self-improvement suspects.
Speaker 2 (02:49):
But here's where I think their prompts are sneakier
than they first appear.
They don't just say be grateful, they ask you to identify what
you're grateful for.
Yeah, and this is the importantbit, how that influences your
choices going forward.
Speaker 1 (03:00):
So it's action-oriented gratitude.
It's got to do something, notjust sit there looking pretty.
Speaker 2 (03:06):
Precisely, and it's the same with the goal-setting
prompts.
They push you to break thosebig, scary ambitions down into
smaller, actionable steps.
Speaker 1 (03:14):
Which, let's be real, is way less intimidating than
change your whole life byJanuary 1st.
Speaker 2 (03:19):
Exactly.
You don't have to climb thewhole mountain tomorrow, let's
just get you to base camp thismonth.
Have to climb the wholemountain tomorrow.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
Let's just get you to base camp this month.
Love that analogy.
Now, you mentioned earlier howNovember is a unique time for
reflection, which I'd neverreally thought about before.
What is it about this monthwhich, let's be honest, is kind
of the Jan Brady of the calendarthat makes it so perfect for
this kind of deep dive?
Speaker 2 (03:38):
Okay, so November not exactly known for being the
most exciting time?
You're right, it's true, butthink about it this way the
summer excitement has faded,we're not yet hit with the
craziness of the holidays andthere's this undeniable shift in
the air, you know.
Speaker 1 (03:54):
Yeah, it's definitely got a vibe.
Speaker 2 (03:56):
Days are shorter, the nights are longer.
It's almost like nature itselfis telling us to slow down, turn
inward a little bit.
The world's hitting the pausebutton Exactly, and whether we
consciously realize it or not,seasons do impact us
psychologically.
They do November in its quietway.
It becomes a potent time formaking intentional shifts before
(04:16):
bam, we get swept up in holidaychaos.
Speaker 1 (04:19):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (04:20):
It's an opportunity right now to hit the reset
button on our values, ourpriorities, to set the stage for
a more intentional December andbeyond that even.
Speaker 1 (04:30):
OK, I'm liking where this is going.
So we're talking about theoverall vibe of these listellian
prompts.
Why November is a good backdrop, but let's dive into a specific
example.
See how this actually works.
What do you say?
Speaker 2 (04:40):
I'm game, let's do it .
Speaker 1 (04:42):
OK, how about we tackle that one you mentioned
earlier?
Describe a typical November day.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
Sounds good.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
Seems deceptively simple, but I have a feeling it
can uncover some interestingstuff.
Speaker 2 (04:51):
Oh for sure, it's all in the details.
Let's see what we can dig up.
Okay, For me a typical Novemberday it starts with that crisp
air hitting my face as soon as Istep outside it's invigorating,
almost like a wake-up call fromnature itself.
I can already feel it and thatsmell of damp leaves, right
Mixed with maybe the faintestscent of wood smoke from
(05:13):
somewhere in the distance.
It's like the whole world isexhaling after a really long hot
summer.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
You were speaking my language.
It's amazing how these littlesensory details pop up when you
actually stop to think aboutthem.
I mean, usually I'm rushing offto work, not composing poetry
about the breeze, but even thenthere's a different energy in
the air.
People seem a little moreintrospective, you know.
Speaker 2 (05:33):
I've noticed that too .
Like we're all collectivelybracing ourselves just a little
bit.
The holidays are coming.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Exactly.
And then there's the light.
By late afternoon, the sun'salready starting to dip below
the horizon, casting this warmgolden glow on everything.
It's that perfect twilight hourthat feels both magical and
melancholic at the same time.
Does that make sense?
Speaker 2 (05:55):
Totally.
That twilight hour in Novemberis special.
The whole world just holds itsbreath for a moment.
It's suspended between day andnight.
For me it's a really potenttime for quiet moment.
It's suspended between day andnight.
For me it's a really potenttime for quiet reflection.
You kind of let go of the day'sanxieties and just surrender to
that stillness.
Speaker 1 (06:11):
I love that.
It's so true, isn't it?
Just this one simple prompt canspark such different but
equally valid reflections.
Speaker 2 (06:18):
It really speaks to the power of individual
experience, right?
What resonates for one personmight not have the same impact
on another, and that's fine.
It's all about finding thosepersonal connections, those
unique threads that speak toyour own experience, your own
journey.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
I like that.
So what about you?
What does a typical Novemberday look like for you?
When you strip away all thenoise and focus on those sensory
details, what comes to mind?
Speaker 2 (06:41):
Well, unlike you, I'm lucky enough to work from home,
so my November mornings tend tobe a bit more, shall we say,
leisurely.
I'm jealous it usually startswith a cup of coffee, maybe a
good book, and there's somethingso comforting about curling up
on the couch with a warm blanket, getting lost in a story as the
sun slowly comes up and then,as the day unfolds, I find
(07:02):
myself kind of gravitatingtowards tasks that require more
focus, more concentration.
Speaker 1 (07:08):
So November is productivity time for you.
Speaker 2 (07:10):
It's true, For me there's a certain clarity that
comes with that crisp autumn air, and it really helps me focus
on work on creative projects.
It's like my mind is mirroringthe natural world, shedding
distractions and zeroing in onwhat matters.
Speaker 1 (07:24):
That's fascinating to me because I'm definitely a
spring and summer productivityperson, but I can see how that
seasonal shift, that slowingdown, could actually lend itself
to really focused work.
Speaker 2 (07:35):
It's counterintuitive , isn't it?
Speaker 1 (07:36):
It is.
Speaker 2 (07:37):
One thing that struck me about your description was
how you mentioned those fleetingmoments of beauty, like that
twilight hour we talked about,and it made me think about how
this prompt, in a way, isencouraging us to slow down and
really savor those moments,something, honestly, we often
forget to do in the rush ofdaily life.
Speaker 1 (07:55):
Oh, 100 percent.
It's so easy to get so caughtup in the to-do list, the hustle
, that you miss those littlethings, those little details.
I think you're right, thoughthe stallion is prompting us to
be more present.
Speaker 2 (08:09):
Exactly.
And what better time topractice that presence than in
November, as we transition intothe holiday season which, let's
face it, often feels anythingbut present.
Speaker 1 (08:19):
Right, it's like they're giving us a head start
on mindfulness training, butdisguised as this fun journaling
exercise.
Speaker 2 (08:26):
Maybe that's their secret agenda, but I think it's
brilliant, because when youlearn to appreciate those small
moments of beauty, even justnotice them, it changes how you
experience everything.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
Oh for sure, Like you're training yourself to find
joy in the everyday, even whenthings are tough.
Speaker 2 (08:42):
And, speaking of things that can be tough, we've
talked a lot about that lookingback aspect of these prompts,
but Lestallion is also big onlooking ahead.
Speaker 1 (08:50):
Absolutely, and I think that's where the real
magic happens, don't you think?
Because reflecting on the pastis only half of the equation.
The other half is using thosereflections to consciously
create the future you wantExactly.
It's not enough to just thinkabout your year, right yeah, the
real magic happens when you usethose reflections to actually
shape the next one.
But let's be real 50 prompts,that's a lot to process.
(09:13):
So today we're doing the heavylifting, cherry picking some
more of the most intriguing onesfrom Lestallion's list.
Speaker 2 (09:20):
And I think you'd be surprised by how, these
seemingly simple prompts, theycan really unlock some profound
insights, ready to dive back in.
Speaker 1 (09:27):
Born ready, hit me with your first pick.
Speaker 2 (09:29):
Okay, let's start with this one.
What changes in nature do younotice during November?
At first glance, it might seemlike just a straightforward
observation exercise.
Speaker 1 (09:39):
Yeah, like write down what you see.
Speaker 2 (09:40):
Right, but I think it goes much deeper than that.
Speaker 1 (09:42):
I can see that, yeah, it's like yeah, okay, the
leaves are changing color, butwhat's the deeper significance
of that whole transformation?
Speaker 2 (09:49):
Exactly, it's about connecting with the natural
rhythms of life, with thatcyclical nature of growth, decay
and renewal.
Speaker 1 (09:56):
It's like nature's giving us a masterclass and
letting go.
Speaker 2 (09:59):
Precisely, and that can be a really powerful
metaphor for our own lives, youknow, especially as we're
approaching the end of the year.
Speaker 1 (10:06):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (10:07):
What are we ready to release?
What old patterns, old beliefsare we clinging to that maybe
aren't serving us anymore?
Speaker 1 (10:13):
Whoa.
Ok, that got deep fast.
I like it.
It's like those naturedocumentaries they zoom in on a
single leaf falling and suddenlyyou're contemplating the
meaning of life.
Speaker 2 (10:22):
Right.
And who knows, maybe byobserving those subtle shifts in
nature we'll gain a whole newperspective on our own.
You know, internal landscape,what parts of us are ready to
change, what's ready to kind?
Speaker 1 (10:35):
of blossom come springtime.
Okay, I'm hooked.
What other gems did you unearthfrom this treasure trove of
prompts?
Speaker 2 (10:40):
Yeah well, this one really resonated with me.
How do you plan to celebratethe new year?
And now you might be thinking,wait a minute, it's November,
Isn't that a little early?
Speaker 1 (10:49):
I have to admit, that was my first thought.
Isn't that like peak Decemberanxiety material Planning New
Year's in November?
Speaker 2 (10:56):
It could be, but I think the timing here is really
intentional, because it's notactually about planning a party
or making reservations or any ofthat.
It's about aligning youractions with your values.
How do you want to show up inthe new year?
What energy do you want toembody?
Speaker 1 (11:11):
It's like setting an intention for the kind of year
you want to have, rather thanletting it just happen to you.
Speaker 2 (11:16):
Exactly, and by starting to think about that
stuff now, in the quiet ofNovember, we give ourselves the
time and space to actually makeconscious choices, choices that
align with our deepest desires,so that we're not just reacting
to whatever the holiday rushthrows at us.
Speaker 1 (11:32):
So that you're not just swept up in the frenzy and
then wake up on January 1stwondering where the year went
and what you did with it.
Speaker 2 (11:38):
Precisely, it's about proactive planning versus
reactive scrambling.
Speaker 1 (11:43):
I'm sensing a theme here.
The Stallion is not messingaround with this whole.
November is launchpad concept.
Speaker 2 (11:50):
Not at all.
They're really encouraging usto seize this month, which is
often overlooked, as a time forintentional transformation.
Speaker 1 (11:56):
Okay, you've convinced me.
I'm ready to swap my pumpkinspice latte for a journal and
get to work on crafting my idealnew year.
Speaker 2 (12:04):
I love that energy, but before you do I have one
more prompt I want to share, andthis one's particularly
interesting Describe a fictionalcharacter experiencing their
first November.
Speaker 1 (12:13):
Ooh, yes, we touched on that one earlier.
Such a unique and unexpectedprompt.
Speaker 2 (12:18):
Right, and I think it's a testament to the power of
storytelling as a tool forself-discovery, because by
creating this character who'sexperiencing November for the
very first time, we're kind offorced to see the world through
their fresh eyes.
Speaker 1 (12:31):
It's like we're tapping into that childlike
sense of wonder again, like, ooh, what's this?
It's cold.
The leaves are doing somethingweird.
Speaker 2 (12:39):
Exactly, and in doing so we might just uncover some
hidden truths about ourselves,or at least gain a newfound
appreciation for the things wetend to take for granted.
It's a reminder that even inthe most familiar experiences
there's always something new todiscover.
I love that, If we're willingto look with open hearts and
minds, of course.
Speaker 1 (12:57):
And that's a beautiful note to end on.
Don't you think?
We've touched on a lot ofpowerful prompts today, but
there's one question that keepscoming back to me, and it's this
what one small change inspiredby all this reflection are you
ready to carry into December?
Speaker 2 (13:14):
Absolutely.
But before we get toocomfortable, remember that
lingering question I left youwith.
Speaker 1 (13:18):
Oh right, the one about that one small change we
want to carry into December.
Speaker 2 (13:22):
Exactly Because all this reflection is great, but
it's meaningless if we don'tactually put it into practice,
right?
So have you had a chance toponder that question?
What's your answer?
Speaker 1 (13:31):
You know, I have been giving it some thought and,
honestly, it wasn't easy tochoose just one, but I think the
change I want to focus on iscultivating a deeper sense of
presence, especially duringthose fleeting moments of beauty
, like we were talking aboutearlier, that we often just miss
in the rush of daily life.
Speaker 2 (13:48):
I love that it's such a powerful and important
intention, especially as we headinto the holiday season, which
often can feel anything butpresent.
Speaker 1 (13:56):
Exactly.
It's so easy to get caught upin the hustle and bustle you
know, the endless to-do lists,the pressure to make everything
perfect that we forget toactually savor the experience,
to connect with the peoplearound us, to really appreciate
the simple joys of the season.
Speaker 2 (14:12):
It's like we're so busy planning for the future
that we forget to live in thepresent moment.
Speaker 1 (14:17):
Exactly, and that's what I want.
To be different this year Iwant to slow down, pay attention
, be fully present in each andevery moment, even the chaotic
ones, right.
Speaker 2 (14:26):
I admire that intention.
It's a practice, for sure, buta worthy one, wouldn't you say?
Speaker 1 (14:30):
100%, and I think it all starts with awareness.
You know, just by being mindfulof those moments when our minds
start to race ahead or getbogged down in the past, we can
gently guide ourselves back tothe present moment.
Speaker 2 (14:44):
It's like we're training our attention muscles,
building up our capacity to bepresent even amidst distractions
.
Speaker 1 (14:51):
Oh, I love that analogy and I think it's
something we can all benefitfrom practicing regardless of
the time of year, but especiallyin November, this time of
transition, of reflection, itfeels like the perfect
opportunity to set thatintention and really start
building those presence muscles.
Speaker 2 (15:05):
Couldn't agree more.
Now I'm curious what about you?
What one small change are youhoping to carry into December?
Speaker 1 (15:11):
Back again.
More November reflection fuel,these Lestallion prompts, I'm
telling you, they sound simpleat first, but they really get
you thinking.
Speaker 2 (15:19):
It's true they're sneakily profound, like that
question we ended on last time.
You know what one small changeare you making.
That's powerful stuff, butthey've got even more where that
came from.
What else caught your eye asyou're going through this batch?
Speaker 1 (15:31):
Okay, this one totally stopped me in my tracks.
What are you looking forward tolearning or trying next?
T-november.
Speaker 2 (15:39):
Next.
Speaker 1 (15:39):
T-November they're playing the long game here.
Speaker 2 (15:41):
They are.
It's like they're asking us tovisualize our growth a year out,
not just who we are right now,but who we aspire to be.
Speaker 1 (15:50):
Right, and I think it's way more effective than
just your typical New Year'sresolutions which, let's be
honest, those things are oftenforgotten by, like February.
This is about long-term vision,you know, setting an intention
for continued exploration andgrowth.
Speaker 2 (16:03):
Yeah, so instead of I should really learn Spanish and
then giving up after threeweeks, it's more like OK,
picture yourself next toNovember.
You're casually chatting with alocal in Barcelona because your
Spamish is so good.
Speaker 1 (16:16):
Way more motivating right.
Speaker 2 (16:18):
Totally.
It's that whole like future youidea.
Don't let future you down.
They've got big plansapparently.
Speaker 1 (16:23):
Exactly, and that kind of speaks to a bigger theme
.
I've noticed with theselistalian prompts it's not just
about the past or even just thepresent moment, it's about how
those reflections actually buildthe future you want.
Speaker 2 (16:36):
And it's like they're giving you permission to dream
big, but then they also hand youthe toolkit to actually make it
happen.
Right Like that.
Okay, I've shared some of myfavorites.
What about you?
What other prompts really stoodout to you?
Okay, this one really got methinking.
How do you keep yourselfmotivated as the year winds down
?
Because, honestly, that's astruggle for a lot of people.
Speaker 1 (16:56):
Tell me about it by November.
That whole new year, new meenergy has definitely faded but
we still have like a whole monthof the year left before we get
to hit the reset button.
Speaker 2 (17:06):
Exactly so.
How do we stay motivated whenit's dark by 5 pm and all you
want to do is like hibernate?
Is it okay to embrace that cozyvibe, or do we have to fight it
?
It's the age old dilemma, right?
But that's kind of the beautyof this prompt, isn't it?
It's not about forcingproductivity or denying
ourselves rest when we need it.
It's about finding that balance, what works for you.
Speaker 1 (17:29):
Yeah, maybe for some people it eyes about setting
smaller, more achievable goalsas the year winds down.
For others, maybe it'sprioritizing self-care now so
they're actually energized goinginto the new year.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
Right, Just recognizing that motivation
naturally ebbs and flowsthroughout the year and that's
completely normal.
In fact, just knowing that canhelp you plan for it better.
It's not about being on all thetime.
It's about figuring out whatkeeps you moving forward, even
if it's at a slower pace.
Speaker 1 (17:56):
for a bit.
I like that it's permission toadjust as needed, which honestly
that's good advice for life ingeneral, not just for November.
You know, going through theseprompts with you, it strikes me
how much emphasis there is onself-awareness.
Speaker 2 (18:11):
Absolutely.
Lyscallion's not hitting youover the head with it, but
they're definitely guiding ustoward a deeper understanding of
ourselves.
Through all these interestingquestions, it's like they're
saying, hey, before you can goconquer the world, or even just
December, you got to get to knowyourself pretty well first.
Speaker 1 (18:25):
Because the more self-aware you are, the better
equipped you are to handlewhatever life or the holidays
decide to throw your way 100%,and you'll be more quick to make
choices that truly align withyour values and your goals.
Speaker 2 (18:39):
not just you know what everyone else is doing or
what you think you should bedoing.
Speaker 1 (18:43):
So, as we wrap up this deep dive into November
reflections, I think we'veunearthed a lot more than just
some journal prompts.
Speaker 2 (18:50):
We have Lestallion.
They make nice journals, that'strue, but they've also given us
a really unique framework forapproaching this time of year,
maybe even life in general, witha bit more intention.
Speaker 1 (19:01):
Who knew a stack of prompts could be so profound?
Big thanks to our listeners fortaking this deep dive with us.
Until next time.
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