Parenting Power Tool #3: "Self-Care" |
Taking care of ourselves can have a profound impact on our perspective. Suddenly big things seem small again.
Between shopping, lessons, helping the kids, preparing meals … AND working full time, do you ever wonder how you'll ever get it done? When my friends and I get together, we all agree, someone has put life into overdrive! While impossible to completely eliminate the hustle and bustle of life these days, it is important to try to insert moments of calm into our days-helping us to unplug and slow life down.
How long has it been since you had time just for yourself-to do whatever you wanted? Many parents are doing such a good job of taking care of everyone else; they forget to take care of themselves. The result can be disastrous. We get rundown, irritable, and sick. But look at the benefits of making a few moments for ourselves each day. We are …
- Refreshed & have more energy
- More confident and creative when we encounter surprises
- Able to better enjoy the time we spend with our family
- Setting a good example for our kids about self-care and balance
Still not convinced? Then take a lesson from the airlines. Before each flight, safety instructions are given in case of an emergency… "Place an oxygen mask on yourself first and then your child. They know the simple fact that if you do not take care of yourself, you won't be able to help anyone.
The secret is to start small. Commit to something you know will nourish & energize yourself. What should you do? Here are a few suggestions:
Follow your passions. Write, paint, draw, read, exercise, play an instrument, visit a museum, take lessons, engage in your favourite hobby, go to the gym, or for a long walk.
Pamper yourself. Go to the spa, have lunch with a friend, go shopping, take a bubble bath, watch a movie, read a trashy novel or good book, listen to music, or simply take a nap (remember naps?)
Can't find the time? Sure you can! We make time for all the other important things in our lives-getting a little "me time" is just as essential! Don't let guilt get in your way. Still not sure how to work it into your day?
Talk to your spouse or family members. Ask them to take over a few of your responsibilities. Explain why.
Schedule meetings with yourself. Get out your agenda and block out important meetings with "YOU Inc." and don't re-schedule them!
Use your lunch hour. If you work outside the home, take a mid-day break. It's too easy to work through lunch, or fill it with errands for other people.
Use a babysitter. If necessary, hire a babysitter, use family, or swap babysitting duty with friends.
Given the busy nature of our lives, finding quiet time for ourselves has never been more important. So get out your agenda, and start making appointments with yourself-in pen. Not only will your family survive … they'll probably thank you!
Take time for yourself-you're worth it!
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This month, I invite you to try the following: "A Self-Care Checklist" Check the items that are true for you. Each week try to focus on adding a few more items you feel are important from the list, or add items of your own design. If necessary, consider working with a coach to try to implement these items powerfully into your life. Overall Health and Well-Being
[ ] I am environmentally responsible. Physical Environment
[ ] I live in a home that I love. Money
[ ] I am satisfied with the amount of money I make. Work
[ ] I look forward to going to work most every day. Relationships
[ ] I am part of at least one loving relationship. Spiritual Well-Being
[ ] When I face serious stress or emotional upsets, I am able to re-balance myself. |
About the Author
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Rob Stringer
Parenting & Life Coach Rob Stringer is a master at helping parents achieve remarkable results! Are you ready to super-charge your parenting? Be sure to check out www.ParentingWithIntention.ca and... Learn more about Rob Stringer
