Finding Time for You…
To be effective in supporting your family and friends, you must first start with yourself. It’s not unlike the safety protocols when flying – “in the case of an emergency or change in cabin pressure, be sure to place the oxygen mask over your own face first before assisting anyone else, even your own children.” If you run out of oxygen, then you can’t help anyone else!
Using this analogy, you might instinctively think this is selfish, counter-intuitive but that’s far from the truth. As a mom/caregiver, especially during tough times, everyone is looking to you for answers, guidance, and support. How can you be at the top of your game if you aren’t meeting your own needs first? You will only provide quality guidance and support by ensuring you are physically and mentally sound to do so. For this, you need to be well-rested, hydrated, and ready to conquer each day with renewed energy. By refueling yourself, you’re ensuring that you are giving the best version of yourself as a leader to your team/family.
So, what are things you can do to ensure this happens? Here are some of the guidelines I try and follow each day (even on the toughest days).
Sleep – I target getting to bed by 9pm every night even when my oldest daughter often stays up later. I know to some this sounds crazy, but having a set bedtime, even on weekends, keeps me sane as well as ensuring I get enough sleep. Remember, sleep is like charging your iPhone. If you don’t charge it, it won’t work. PERIOD!
Movement – I know I write about this all time, but movement is medicine. I like to work out in the morning (before everyone gets up) to ensure I am giving my body and more importantly my mind, a break from the stress of everyday life. By getting up before everyone else, I have time to focus on me. Whether it be running, biking, walking and/or yoga, I ALWAYS make time! Even if it means that I’m up at 4am on a weekend.
Fuel – Food can be an emotional rollercoaster, but if you pick foods to fuel your body and not to just reward yourself, you tend to feel better. I’m not saying you can’t enjoy dessert, fried food, etc. but in moderation. Depriving oneself of anything is not the answer, but setting boundaries is where the magic happens. I tell my kids all the time, that this is the only body you get, so treat it like gold. Eat well balanced meals and drink plenty of water. Remember, up to 60% of the human adult body is water, so drink up!
As we approach Mother’s Day, we hope our mothers/caregivers out there have a great day/weekend. However, it’s more than once a year that you should be making time and taking care of yourself! Remember to secure your oxygen mask first before assisting others…
Happy Mother’s Day from us here at Raising Addy!
Much love,
Raising Addy
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