Those 3 “P”s basically sum up the month of October for me! It’s been a busy one, between all the Halloween-related activities for my children, gigs I’ve played, and of course, the book I’ve been working on for the past 6 months.

Heading into October, I was worried about being able to accomplish everything I needed to do in between all of the events on my personal and professional calendar. Just opening the calendar app on my phone has been scarier than any Halloween movie — it’s packed with kids’ birthday parties (at least one every weekend!), school-sponsored events, local performances, family outings, mini deadlines related to my book, and of course, all of my responsibilities at my main gig, Music Therapy Connections.

As it turns out, though, I thrive with a full schedule. In between all of the non-negotiables, I somehow managed to make significant progress on my home organization efforts, write 2 new songs, volunteer at my kids’ school several times, and participate in an ongoing workout bootcamp.

I’ve been waking up at 5 am every day to get a head-start on my long daily to-do list, and while I’m pretty tired by early evening, I really do think this has been the key to my next-level productivity. By the time I get my kids up for school, I already feel accomplished and energized/caffeinated, which makes for a happier and smoother morning with them. That leads to a better, less stressful day overall.

I hope I can keep up this pace as we head into November, which promises to be just as full. On the calendar for next month: my first Avett Brothers concert (!!) in Wisconsin, a probable trip to Miami, several plans with friends and family for Thanksgiving…oh, and the preorder launch of my new book, Innovative Income for Music Therapists.

It’s hard to believe that after months and months of writing and editing, I finally get to start the process of sharing my book with you. I’ll be announcing specific dates soon, but preorders will open in November, and then the book (along with an optional CMTE course!) will be available in January. More details are coming on Friday, November 1.

In the meantime, I have a preschool Fall singalong to lead, car to decorate for Trunk or Treat at school, and Halloween party to host at my house, among other things. It will all get done, right?! ;)

I would love to hear what you’ve been up to this month, and your plans for November. Leave me a comment or send me an email, rachel@listenlearnmusic.com. Happy Friday and have a great weekend!