Are you keeping right side up or are you getting knocked over? Does it feel like no matter what you do, it seems that often every minute of every day is always scheduled for something? With many challenges and complexities of life today, especially with the increased hardships of our current economy, it can be very easy to become sidetracked from ourselves, our needs and what is important. If you find yourself scurrying around for everyone else, or if you find yourself reaching back into old habits, you are not alone. Here are a few pointers to help you get back on track to a balanced lifestyle:
- Actually stop and smell the roses. Slow down. Take note and observe your surroundings. Make an effort to recognize your journey rather than just waiting to reach your destination.
- Take a moment to examine what is truly important to you. Write down a list of what you need to do and then prioritize and say no to unnecessary activities or chores.
- Schedule alone time or “ME” time at least once a day. And then stick with it.
- Make sure to make time to eat regularly scheduled meals. Your brain needs fuel and your body needs a break too. You also do not want to fall victim to grazing, unhealthy snacking or skipping meals. Stay clear of fast foods as it is easy to get caught up in being too busy to prepare or pack a meal.
- Go back to basics to get back on track. Pull out those old manuals, affirmation scripts, books etc and just start again.
- Reach out for support and hand over some chores to others who seem to be sitting around. You don’t have to do it all.
- Exercise helps eliminate stress and empowers you to a clear mind
- Realize that you do not have to do everything. The laundry does not have to get done every day.
- Separate work and home life. There needs to be a boundary so that work does not invade your personal life.
- For those moms out there who feel that they have to be the perfect mom, there is no such a thing. Your child does not need to be in every activity so that there is no time left for anything else.
- Teach your family to relax. Take time out to just do nothing.
- Take a mental health day from work just to do something relaxing and fun for yourself. Don’t tell anyone until your day is through.
- Take up a new hobby or revisit a forgotten one.
If you are not taking care of yourself because so many other people depend on you, it is time for a reality check. Simplify your life. People work all their lives to retire and slow down. Why wait? The less you have to worry about, the less you have to pay for, and the less you will worry. Remember that your life is a journey and a process in motion. Be kind to yourself as you make the necessary changes to incorporate more balance into your life. Forget the criticism and praise yourself for even small changes made.
– Heidi R. Cherwony, Psy.D.
Founder, mindandbodydoctor.com
Tags: Depression, stress reduction, wellness
