This post was originally published on the My Peacetree blog. Read more about these archives.
Repeat after me: I will give myself a moment or two of my own time. I will remember that I (and my mental, physical, and emotional health) am a priority. I will be gentle with myself.
I sit on my bed under a downy blanket, fighting procrastination. This past week has been a tough one for me. There have been several things which have been testing me mentally and emotionally and which have been completely preoccupying my mind. Deadlines are ever present. I’m exhausted and have not been treating my body well, resulting in further exhaustion.
What does one do in these situations? Do you, like I do, need reminding that it’s okay to take a step back, take a deep breath, and go slowly?
Sometimes, in all the hurry and bustle and must dos and should dos, I forget to take care of myself. I forget to send myself love, and I forget to be gentle with myself. If you are in a similar situation, dearest, remember that you are a top priority – those To Dos can wait for a moment while you dedicate some time to you.
For a short-term solution, take a quick break in the midst of work – it often allows one to come back refreshed and full of renewed energy. Struggling through a project or task may in fact prevent you from doing your best work or from accomplishing as much as you need to!
Try one or more of these little tricks to boost your spirits and your drive:
- Make a cup of tea and sip it slowly
- Read a blog post or two
- Take a short walk outside
- Have a conversation with your kids, spouse, or friend
- Doodle or sketch
- Stretch
- Meditate for a few minutes, or simply close your eyes and focus on your breathing
- Tidy the area around you – often a clear space helps create a clear mind
- Make a list of 15 things to be grateful for
After a few minutes’ break, return to the task at hand and see if you are not more clear-headed and better able to focus. I suggest giving yourself at least five minutes of time each hour in order to re-center. Go on, treat yourself to some self-love!