Photograph Credit: Flickr (slgckgc)
For the past four months, I have been taking more time for myself. When I feel tired and worn out from a busy day, I rest in the evening and go to bed early. When my schedule gets overloaded and I need time to think, I stop.
By listening to my body, I have stayed very healthy. Besides a small cold and a day of achiness, I have not gotten sick. My family has suffered through the flu and week-long colds, but I was able to care for them without succumbing to their illnesses.
As I usually would just run myself into the ground trying to get it all done, I have found freedom in letting things go. Having read Say Goodbye to Survival Mode, I can turn a blind eye – without guilt – to the pile of dirty dishes in the sink, the mound of paperwork on my desk, and the 30+ e-mail messages staring at me from my inbox.
For my Type A personality, where I stop to organize something immediately before moving on, this has been a learning process. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m mellowing out. Not sure if it is because I turned 40 last year or my perspective on life has focused more on the big picture than the present moments, but I like the new me.
By concentrating on getting rest, good nutrition, and some fun, I have been more patient with my children, planned more outings, and have more free time to relax. This is possible because I have not taken on any projects. I have concentrated on my family and our home and declined other opportunities.
In seizing 2014, I am enjoying the more simple life without the distractions and expectations of others. I love it and will continue taking time for myself.
If you are feeling frazzled, exhausted, and impatient, please take time for you. When you are whole, then you can fully address your responsibilities. In using time wisely, take the time you need to heal, rest, and rejuvenate. I’ll be taking time for myself also. Happy resting this weekend!
Question: How are you changing these days?