How to Get Focused (+ 3 LinkedIn Profile Tips)



Happy Wednesday, Reader!

Over the last few years, I’ve been obsessed with how people do their best, most meaningful work. After years of working with clients and community members from all walks of life, I’ve built a framework for accomplishment that’s proven itself again and again. I’m more inspired than ever to keep sharing these insights through The Accomplishment Project. if you haven’t subscribed yet, I’d love to have you join us for fresh ideas and podcast updates.

As I wrap up GOAL30 Round 1 and reflect on how I handle overwhelm, I’m hopeful that what I’ve learned, about both external barriers and internal self-talk, will help me be even more productive and joyful moving forward. More on that soon! (And remember, Round 2 of GOAL30 starts in March! I hope you’ll join us!)

And now..check out all the latest Cheerful Updates below!

Cheers!

PS: Reply to this email with questions or feedback—I love hearing from you!


🎯 ACCOUNTABILITY SUCCESS CIRCLE

🚨GOAL30 ROUND 2 IS OPEN FOR REGISTRATION! 🚨
Round 1 of GOAL30 is underway, and our next 30-day challenge kicks off on Thursday, March 5!

What is GOAL30?
GOAL30 is a 30-day challenge designed to help you focus on one meaningful goal—personal or professional—and make progress through consistent action, reflection, and honest accountability. It’s not about perfection or doing more, but about making real, sustainable progress in a way that fits your actual life.

Why join?

  • Dedicated space to work on what matters most to you
  • Encouragement, flexibility, and community support
  • Real progress—no hustle required

Not sure what to work on? No problem. The next round includes an optional 30-day focus on Career & Money foundations — perfect for anyone looking to make intentional progress in their work, finances, or professional confidence.

If you’re curious about how GOAL30 works, or what the Accountability Success Circle has to offer, you can always reply with questions or check out more info here.

Special Offer:
The GOAL Together Program (all GOAL30 rounds for 2026 plus the Annual Planning Retreat in Denver, CO) is open for registration! Work on your goals all year and plan 2027 with us in October!

🎉 Community Corner

Here’s what some participants are saying about the biggest benefits of this round:

  • “It’s really got me examining my spiritual beliefs and solidifying the importance of playfulness.”
  • “I feel stronger and more prepared for my trek.”
  • “The biggest benefit has been recognizing how important preparation is in my life.”
  • “Just having a space to go through the ups and downs of this crazy challenge has been huge.”

Want to experience some benefits from prioritizing the things most important to you? Join us for Round 2!

🗓️ Upcoming Events

  • GOAL30 Round 2 Launch: March 5, 2026
  • 2027 Annual Planning Retreat: October 15-19, 2026 (Denver, CO)

🎙THE ACCOMPLISHMENT PROJECT

This Week's Featured Article:
📝 3 Ways to Get Focused Now

This week, I’m sharing three ways to get focused, especially when distractions are everywhere.

Want to catch up? You can explore the full archive of podcast episodes and articles — all designed to help you build meaningful, sustainable accomplishment without pressure or burnout.

Want to support The Accomplishment Project?
If this work resonates, subscribing or following the podcast helps more than you might realize.

I’m also actively gathering real-life stories as part of my long-term research on accomplishment. If you’re interested in contributing your perspective and being part of the dataset behind this project, I’d love to hear from you — you can share your thoughts by filling out this form.


🧠 SCIENCE OF PEOPLE

This month in People School, we’re diving into LinkedIn—how to create a standout profile and build your network. I’ll be facilitating workshops and updating my own profile, too!

Here are a few tips to give your LinkedIn Profile a glow-up!

  1. Banner: Use your background photo as a clear call-to-action or to highlight what you do—don’t leave it blank!
  2. Profile Photo: Choose a clean, shoulders-up photo with a genuine smile and direct eye contact.
  3. Headline: Go beyond your job title—use your headline to showcase your skills or how you help others.

Want to build real-world people skills? Learn more from Vanessa Van Edwards and Science of People (I'm proud to serve as the People School Coach and Community Programming + Engagement Lead!).


PRIVATE COACHING

Limited openings are available for ‘Life by Design’ sessions—a warm, no-pressure conversation if you’re feeling stuck or ready for change.


Apryl Zarate Schlueter is the founder of The Cheerful Mind, where she helps people redefine success through clarity, intention, and sustainable accomplishment.
She’s a certified coach, co-founder of the Accountability Success Circle, and the author of
Finding Success in Balance. She also hosts The Accomplishment Project, exploring what it really means to live a fulfilling, accomplished life.

Helping you accomplish more with joy, balance, and connection.

Social Media: | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube

The Cheerful Mind, Inc.

Welcome to The Cheerful Mind! Stay tuned for tips on having more fun while getting stuff done!

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