The past six weeks have been insane. With some significant changes at the workplace and subsequently an increase in my workload, I’ve been buried.
On a good day, I tend to work more hours than most… and I’m that person that’s always willing to put in extra time when it’s needed. Well, for the past six weeks, it’s been needed… and that’s what I’ve been doing fairly non-stop: WORKING.
I haven’t seen friends. I haven’t been out. I’ve been working to keep up and recovering on the weekends. It’s been pretty ho-hum to say the least.
While the workload hasn’t decreased, it has stabilized and become somewhat “normal.” And as I sink into this new normal, I’m realizing more and more that I need to make time for me. You know what they say about all work and no play… it’s so incredibly true.
And, from a healthy living perspective… it’s hard to do what I need to do when I’m exhausted all the time. And my weight loss progress this month has been impacted by this all. So, the buck stops here….
There are a few things that are FOOL-PROOF escapes for me… and these escapes provide direct access to “me time.” And, starting now, I’m committing to all of you that I am going to take better care of me.
In many ways, I consider all of y’all who read NTTC to be my accountability partners. When I share things here, I know that you’re counting on me to uphold my commitment. So, moving forward, I’m going to pause for me time, and here are a few versions of “me time” that I’ll be employing…
Plan a Spa Day
I love a good spa day, and sometimes I just need it. With my back injury, the benefits are two-fold. I’m able to have my back worked on (which is amazing!) and I’m able to relax completely on a massage table.
I like to find a local spa I haven’t tried, and book myself a session! I love trying out new places… and actually spent some time “on the table” last weekend at what just might be my new favorite spa in Colorado.
Take Time to Chat
When the only thing I can see is more “to-do” lists and email messages that need tending to, sometimes I need my friends to help me get away from it all.
So, let’s chat… let’s talk a little less about the 9-5 and a little more about the Kardashians, what cute clothes are in stores right now, and dreaming of how we’re going to spend our lottery winnings. Because we’re totally going to win…
Get Outside
The weather in Colorado is RIDICULOUSLY beautiful right now. We’re in the upper 70s and 80s this week, and I can’t think of a better place to be than outside.
Even a quick walk on the trails near my house could do the body (and mind) good… In fact, this article claims that exposure to nature directly improves happiness!
Take Time to Get Beautiful
Applying a fresh coat of polish or spending the time to apply a moisturizing mask… these are things that just naturally make me feel pretty and girly… and they’re often the things that slip when times get hectic.
And both take MINUTES! I can find minutes each day for things like this!
Escape with a Great Book
Sometimes, I just need a great literary escape. Somewhere I can slip away for a few hours and get lost in the lives of some fabulous characters. Right now, I’m reading The Girl on the Train, and I’m loving it!
As you know, I also highly recommend It Was Me All Along and Eat Pray Love. I also love anything by Emily Giffin and Elin Hilderbrand. As a bonus, read that book in a warm bath… with yummy sea salts from Ladyburg.
What other tips do you have for good “me time”?