THE ROOT 9: 31.3

Lately, we’ve been doing some team mission statement exploration at work and it’s subconsciously influenced me to think about my own, considering the big questions that anchor my actions, especially during times of change.

Even if we are in a period of our life where we are valuing stability, it can also be a roadmap that guides our day to day habits and how we move through the world.

It should be as simple yet complex to land 100% accurately - the belief you choose to show up with every morning. Sometimes, reminding yourself of this anchor is the push you need to decide your next step or find that small ounce of motivation on a day where it feels low.

Perhaps you realize the current mission statement you've been operating on passively is outdated, and it’s time for a refresh. Or maybe you just need to actively name and acknowledge the one you’re already embodying.

This week, I challenge you to spend some time to articulate the mission statement you are grounding yourself on right now. What is the single principle that informs your commitments and drives your daily effort?

An Excuse to Gather

I’ll be the first to admit I’m not an avid TV watcher. But…there was a time when it was a ritual back home with my mom and we’d have so much fun watching and commenting on Dancing with the Stars and The Bachelor together. But generally, if I'm alone, I’d rather read or browse the internet. With other people, though, I think it's nice background noise (and yes, you’ve been warned, this means I tend to talk during movies…I can’t be changed!).

I appreciated how some of the big streaming/viewing events this week created natural opportunities for people to gather. Our office had a happy hour for the first SF 49ers game, it was packed and the energy was infectious even if you aren’t a football fan. Lots of people I know are celebrating the release of Taylor’s new album with listening parties. It seems like Dancing with the Stars is back.

It made me think: Is there a viewing or streaming event coming up that could create an opportunity for connection and time with friends?

It doesn't have to be a major sporting event or a new album drop. Maybe it's digging into an old favorite movie or binging a new docuseries. But using it as an excuse to put down your phone, gather with people, and just enjoy the collective 'background noise' is a win in my book.

Lean Into Experimentation

I never thought I'd say it, but I bought a sweater vest.

It wasn't because I have anything against them, but because they just never felt like they were "me." I loved the preppy vibe they had on other people, but they always felt awkward when I tried them on.

However, I was looking at our September Pre-Fall lookbook and really loved this specific iteration of a vest. If you know me, you know I love a plaid. You know I love a barrel jean even more. And, my heart is fondest over a great pair of boots. So, I saw this combo and thought: Wait, preppy with a bit of edge. I think I can do this.

With the opening of our headquarters store at Levi Plaza, I went in and tried the whole outfit. Loved it. I bought every piece. If you are also interested, you can find the look here:

All that to say, while I think each of these pieces is fab, maybe the broader message is this: Don't feel too constrained by what you think your "vibe" is. Experiment! You might be surprised by what you suddenly fall in love with.