I know how difficult it is for most of you…Kids, jobs, making meals, laundry, dishes, being homework helpers, shopping, picking up and dropping off the kids, getting them ready for school and sports, making time for spouses and family, doing all of those little things that can’t really be counted (I mean can it really count that you sweep the floor 7 times a day, that you’ve folded that blanket 12 times, that you’ve pushed that chair in 4 times, or that you’re constantly picking up Legos from the floor?), just to name a few.
You’re busy. I get it. But I also know that you need to take care of yourself. When you’re constantly giving, giving, giving, you lose a part of yourself. You feel guilty and selfish for spending time on you. Why is that? If a friend was doing all that you’re doing and was feeling exhausted and worn down or just defeated that she has no time to do what makes her feel alive, what would you tell her? I’m sure you’d tell her to take some time. That some things can wait. She’s important. She has a support group that would love to help her out. You’d probably give her a little tough love and tell her to stop doing things that are wasting her time (we all have those time-wasters!) so that she has time to actually accomplish her goals. Well, guess what? You’re important, too! And you need to have that conversation with yourself.
Make yourself a priority. Take some time for yourself to work out, to meal prep, to read, to do something with a friend. So the laundry doesn’t get folded right away. So what? The dishes are in the sink for an extra hour. Who cares? (Actually, someone might just pick up the slack and help you out – surprise!) You need time for you. You need to give yourself the permission to take it. Trust me…everything will be ok.
When you do something for your mental and physical health, you feel better. You are more kind. You are able to deal with situations that arise more calmly and with greater problem-solving skills. You don’t snap at those around you. You see the big picture more clearly. You set a good example for your family and friends. You’re happier. You feel better. You’re less stressed. You make better decisions. C’mon, you know I’m right. 😉
So…make some time for you TODAY (and every day). It doesn’t have to be a long time, but time for you to focus on you and remember who you are. You’re not just a mom, dad, wife, husband or (insert job title here), you’re an individual who likes to do stuff. So do that stuff. I’m giving you permission. Now you just need to give yourself that permission.
So what will your very deserving self make the time to do today?
Ellen