|
Gimme a Break! Self Care for the Overworked Entrepreneur
 Why
am I doing this? I just feel like I can't focus today! I'm
not enjoying my job like I used to. What's the matter with
me? I NEED A BREAK!!!!
When you are CEO, head nurse, mommy, head of janitorial
services, and chief crafts coordinator, life can leave you
a little weary sometimes. As a business owner YOU are your
most valuable resource, so it makes sense to take care of
yourself! When you start to feel overwhelmed, it's important
to know when to slow down and take a break. Below are 10
ways you can pamper yourself.
1) SCHEDULE A DAY OFF: Often when we are
the busiest is when we need a break the most. Schedule a
day in your calendar just for you. Promise to enjoy your
time off. Turn off the computer, and don't answer the phone.
Don't let guilt, or a list of impending deadlines steal
your relaxation and enjoyment for the day.
2) MAKE TIME FOR THE SPECIAL RELATIONSHIPS IN YOUR
LIFE: Go on a date with you're your husband. Enjoy
a cup of gourmet coffee with a friend. Steal away on a mommy
and daughter/son breakfast. Write a special note to a friend
or spouse letting you know how you feel about them. Give
someone special a long meaningful hug. Spend a little extra
time cuddling with your kiddos before bed time.
3) TAKE TIME TO CELEBRATE: Make up a holiday.
Invite a friend to a "just because" lunch. Order
out for pizza. At our house, we have a tradition called
"pajama party". When we want to celebrate, we
all get into our pajamas extra early, gather all our pillows
and blankets, pull out the sofa bed, snuggle up, watch a
special movie, and tell each other stories. This is a special
treat that the whole family REALLY looks forward to!
4) PAMPER YOURSELF: Indulge in a candle
lit bubble bath. Listen to some soothing music. Read a juicy
romance novel. Take a day at the spa. Soak up some sun at
the beach. Sip a glass of wine and watch the sun set in
your backyard. Why not buy yourself a bouquet of flowers?
5) NURTURE YOUR BODY: Treat yourself to
plenty of sleep, eat balanced meals, drink lots of water,
and take vitamins. If you've been neglecting a checkup,
now's the time to schedule it! When you take care of your
body, you'll have more energy and feel happier.
6) GET OUT OF THAT CHAIR & EXERCISE:
Sitting in your office chair all day isn't exactly the ideal
workout. Head to the gym, take a walk thru the park, or
take a dip in the pool. Take in a game of golf, racquetball
or tennis. Exercise is a proven stress reducer!
7) CATCH A RAY OF SUNSHINE: There's nothing
more energizing then feeling of sunshine on your face. Spend
time in your garden, play ball with the kids, or take a
trip to the park. I love to take a "nature walk"
in my backyard. I walk slowly looking at each flower and
tree, and really taking each detail in again as if for the
very first time. Take time to enjoy the wonder and beauty
of nature and let it fill you.
8) BE A KID FOR A DAY: Forget your responsibilities
for just one day. Put away your "to do list" and
revel in all the things you'd like to do but shouldn't.
Let your house be messy, sleep in, eat an ice-cream sundae
for supper, and watch you're favorite funny movie. Make
up a silly song. Put on your favorite CD and dance! Mix
up a batch of monster size cookies! Let the little kid in
your come out and play!
9) RENEW YOUR SPIRIT: Often in the busyness
of life, we forget to take quiet time for ourselves. I encourage
you to take time to journal, daydream, read the scriptures,
and meditate. In stillness, you can tune-in to what really
matters to you. Take time to listen to your heart, reflect
and honor the quiet voice within.
10) GET A MAKEOVER: Do you feel pretty
when you look in the mirror? If not, you deserve to! When
you look good, you FEEL good. Get a new haircut or a manicure.
Spoil yourself with a brand new outfit. Spritz on a new
perfume.
MY PERSONAL CHALLENGE TO YOU: All work
and no play make Jack a dull boy! Don't wait until you are
feeling burned out to take a break. I challenge you to take
out your pen, flip thru your calendar, and schedule yourself
a day off. When you are well rested, you'll have a newfound
energy, spark and passion to drive you forward to success!
 Webmomz
Recommended Books for Self Care
Take Time for Your Life by Cheryl Richardson
Learn how to switch from being stressed, unfulfilled, and
overworked, to "living a life you love" by using
a seven-step process.  Self
Care Cards by Cheryl Richardson are a great
way to remind yourself how wonderful you are and to take
care of yourself! Draw a different card from the deck to
provide daily thought and inspiration.
|
Get
FREE home business tips delivered right to your inbox!
