Simple Solutions for the Woman Who Needs a Break
It was 5:30 am, and I sat in a puddle of tears on the floor, while my daughter, Joy, laughed uncontrollably at my exhaustion. Having Autism, I knew she struggled to understand emotion, but her enthusiastic laughter just made me sob harder.
After a few moments of fuzzy, sleep filled thoughts, I realized this wasn’t about just being shorted on sleep for one night.
My spirit was worn out, weary, and I was longing for balance deep within my soul.
I craved rest and a chance to recharge.
I longed for a break and a chance to reconnect with myself and my own muddled thoughts.
But why is it as women do we continue on survival mode without making time for ourselves? Why do we think we have to give to others until we suddenly are completely depleted? And why do we always put on a brave face and pretend like we’re ok?
Not only is there is no shame in taking time to recharge, it’s dangerous when we try to function on empty.
Personally, when I am zapped of margin and balance, I am not the best wife I can be. I’m short with Hubs and only focused on one thing, finding a solution to my weariness.
When I am depleted of rest and solitude, my attitude towards my kids can be snappy and curt.
Ladies, it is impossible to build into the lives of others without a restored and refreshed spirit, yet, there’s only one person who will make you a priority. You.
I know you’re thinking, “My life is filled with crazy chaos, and I barely have time to scarf down a meal, let alone find time to myself. Is this REALLY possible?”
Why, yes it is, my friend.
Here’s some simple solutions for the woman who needs a break and to restore balance to her soul.
1. Schedule time for yourself on your calendar and keep the appointment unless a true emergency comes about.
2. Reconnect with the Lord. Sometimes when my spirit is parched, it’s because I’m weary and in need of God to refresh my soul with His love and promises.
3. Take a long, hard look at your commitments, and learn to say no. You can’t and shouldn’t try to do “it all”, and sometimes you have to re-prioritize a full schedule to find balance.
4. Make over your morning routine to make your time run more smoothly. The course Make Over Your Mornings is a wonderful starting place and helpful series to guide you through new habits.
5. Unplug!!! Turn off all electronics and set a time to just focus on the here and now without the distractions of technology.
6. Set a monthly date with friends and before you leave that event, schedule your next outing.
7. Carry a book with you to read during those extra moments {in line, at carpool, while waiting for an oil change, or in the doctor’s office}.
8. Cuddle your kids, spouse or animals. That ALWAYS makes me feel better.
9. Swap babysitting times with a friend so you can each have some alone time.
10. Go to bed at an early hour on a regular basis. You’ll think more clearly and awake recharged.
11. Create a mom sanity plan, to help you realize what’s important to you and makes you tick.
