Are you feeling frazzled? The stress of a modern lifestyle is enough to drive the most stable of us ragged at the edges from time to time. Are you losing focus at work? Do you feel more tired than usual? If so, fatigue is knocking at the door, and it won’t be long until you pay the ultimate price for your behaviour.
If you don’t take the time to adjust your life and find a balance between work and family commitments, you’ll end up burning out. Here are 5-tips you can use to restore and replenish your mind and body.
1. Unplug from Work
Your boss may applaud you for staying late at the office or bringing your work home with you. However, it’s a sure-fire way to end up feeling like you’re at the end of your rope. Over-committing to your job may seem like a great idea at first, but it will catch up with you.
Everyone wants to feel like she is advancing in the workplace, but if it comes at a cost to your family, and your mental health, is it worth it? It’s a better strategy to do what you’re paid for and let someone else worry about the rest. Learn to say no to your boss’s request to stay late.
The chances are that he or she isn’t asking anyone else to do it, so why should you? Please stick to the parameters of your job description, and when it’s time to leave for the day, do so. Leave your place of employment and unplug for the day. Worry about the rest of your responsibilities tomorrow morning.
2. Create a Relaxation Routine
Do you have a relaxation routine? Everyone needs some pampering and self-indulgence on a regular basis. It can be something as simple as enjoying a hot bath, with the pleasant fragrance of essential oils wafting in the steamy air of your bathroom.
Practice meditation for a few minutes after your bath and take the time to read your favourite book or listen to your favourite music. Clear your mind and empty your thoughts.
3. Get Outdoors
Get out in the fresh air at least once a week. Take a stroll through the park or traverse a hiking trail with your partner. Being outdoors connects you with nature and drives away the hustle and bustle of your daily grind. Stop and take a deep breath, feel the power and pleasure of nature envelop your senses and invigorate your mind.
4. Find Your Balance
Being a mom and raising a family, along with working full or part-time, elevates stress to unbearable levels. In this fragile state, you will eventually break down. You need to balance your commitments with time for yourself.
Analyze your schedule and find 45-minutes of every day where you can focus on yourself and implement your relaxation routine. It’s common for busy women to think that they don’t have the time to relax and disengage from the madness that is their life. This strategy is the wrong way to look at things.
How would your family or boss respond if you suffer a nervous breakdown? Would they be impressed that you spend every waking moment trying to influence them to get a raise or deserve their love? Of course not. Balance is critical, without it you’re heading off the rails.
5. Find a Hobby
A hobby gives your mind something to focus on other than the daily grind of life. Pick something that excites you. Have you always wanted to try a hot yoga class? Maybe you’ve dreamed of going to the driving range on the weekend? Choose whatever you think will engage your mind, and provide a release from the drudgery of the day.
The Final Thought – Me Time Isn’t Selfish
Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish, it’s a necessity. We’re not saying that you need to forget your responsibilities at work or home. We’re merely stating that everyone needs a release and a disconnect from daily stress.
If you’re feeling guilty about taking time away from your family, sit them down and explain to them that you’re doing this for their benefit as well. You might be surmised to learn that they’re all for you taking some “me-time.”
