It’s that time of year again, except for Arizona (except the Navajo Nation) and Hawaii; Daylight Saving Time (DST) is in effect for 48 states in the USA (aka, we spring ahead one hour!)
Daylight Saving Time originated in 1918 as a WWI-era measure to conserve fuel and energy by maximizing evening sunlight, officially established by the Standard Time Act of 1918. It was unpopular, repealed, and reinstated during WWII before the 1966 Uniform Time Act standardized the start and end dates. Currently, the “spring forward” change occurs on the second Sunday of March in the US, extending the period for daylight.
On a Somber Note
The recent events in the Middle East temper my Spring Ahead post. There’s so much we don’t know; uncertainty is prevalent in my daily conversations across the US and globe.
What I do know is that, amidst times of crisis and stress, it may be helpful to have a framework to work from when making decisions during a crisis. Here is “PACE”.
- P – Pause and Assess
- What is the actual urgency level?
- What are the real consequences of waiting 24 hours?
- Who else needs to be involved in this decision?
- A – Analyze Options
- What are the 2-3 realistic options?
- What are the costs and benefits of each?
- Which option aligns with your values and priorities?
- C – Consult and Communicate
- Who needs to be informed before you decide?
- What input do you need from others?
- How will you communicate the decision?
- E – Execute and Evaluate
- What are the specific next steps?
- How will you monitor if it’s working?
- When will you reassess?
The thing about PACE is that it also applies to life right now. Pace yourselves, take breaks from information, and be in touch with people that matter.
Some Good News
Medicare retirees faced a tough blow recently when a vital Medicare service was taken away. The good news is, lawmakers have now reversed course — but only temporarily.
Retirees should be aware of the rule change and how it can affect their ability to get the medical care they need in light of all the recent modifications to Medicare coverage.
Lawmakers temporarily restore Medicare coverage of critical services! Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, which was signed on Feb. 3, comprehensive Medicare coverage for health services was extended through Dec. 31, 2027.
This means that, for the time being, retirees can still get help from home, without having to travel to a doctor’s office. Because the extension isn’t permanent, this issue could and probably will come up again.
Keep Breathing
Usually, I spring ahead with spring in my actions! This year, not feeling it as much. I’m deliberately taking a slower pace and concentrating on what’s in my area of influence.
The people I’m working with are good people. The people I’m sharing time with are good people. My heart goes out to the families impacted by deployment or waiting to be called up.
Keep breathing and be extra kind to those around you, as we never know what’s going on in their world. If you’d ever like to discuss your situation, click on Book a Time with Lynn for a complimentary 30-minute Zoom with me. Or send me a note via Email or check out what I offer @ The Living Planner.
For you pre-planners, my book is a resource you might enjoy. The 2026 edition of Living Planner What to Prepare Now While You Are Living © is being printed! Check it out HERE.
Quote of the week: “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” — Audrey Hepburn
Be kind to one another, Lynn
#Can’tPredictCanPrepare #CareForPeopleCareForBusiness