Feeling overwhelmed? Stressed? Have too much on your plate?
Me too!
Beyond the pandemic, life seems to be moving at warp speed these days. I thought it was just me, but more and more people I talk to, I hear the same thing: “I can’t keep up.”
You would think we’d have more time on our hands since most of us are still primarily home, be it working from home or otherwise restricting our time out of the house because of COVID-19. Yet, our schedules are filling up just the same as when we were out and about.
Why is that? Has the world found a way to keep us busy even when downtime is seemingly at our fingertips? Or is it us?
I’m going with the latter. Busy is not only a lifestyle. It’s also a mindset. And if it’s yours, you understand. It certainly is mine! And it’s time for a break. A breath. A reprieve.
So, what can we do? Stop working? Forget about our chores and responsibilities? Not so much. But we can make REST a PRIORITY.
In a busy workday, you can make it a point to build in 15 minutes between meetings (at a minimum; 30 minutes is preferred) as a break. Take 10 minutes to stand up, get a drink, grab a snack…whatever. The other five minutes are for you to focus on just BEING. Whether sitting alone, listening to a favorite song, or reading something calming, take five minutes for YOU. Use this time to reset, regroup, and be ready for your next commitment.
Importantly BEFORE you start working (whatever work looks like for you -on the computer, taking care of your kids, or managing the house), take 15 minutes for yourself. Midday, build in a lunch break of at least 30 minutes, if not an hour. AFTER work (or at least before dinner and nighttime for us parents where work is 24/7), take 15 minutes for yourself. Go for a walk. Sit in silence. Do whatever brings you peace.
To be productive, healthy, and happy, REST is critical. Restoration will allow you to be who you need to be, not only for yourself but for those who need you most. With your mind clear and your heart open, the present moment belongs to you.
Remember, when you’re feeling stressed, REST is the antidote.
Even if you don’t think you have time to rest amongst a wildly busy schedule, plan ahead and make it a priority.
You’re worth it!
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