 Sometimes life’s routines and schedules don’t offer us much time for reflection, or simply just a moment to ourselves to offer a bit of self-love and self-care. I remember years ago being on a tight schedule with three young children, a full-time career and a commute. As I reflect back on those crazy, busy years I recall ways in which I carved out small bits of “me time” throughout my days. And, no - this did not happen at the beginning of my day.
The idea of waking up any earlier than 5:45am was out of the question! I had three little ones to get out of the door before 7am. My mornings were like running a marathon in a suit and pumps, with backpacks and diaper bags fully-stocked and in tow. Two stops, and it was off to the “races” on the congested Los Angeles freeways for a lovely 30-45 minute commute. Despite my busy schedule, I have always been that person who craved quiet, introspective time. I knew I needed it. I was a busy mom and a successful business woman. I took care of a home, a yard, a car, the bills, and three kids. Time was at a premium to say the least. So, the question goes “how does someone so busy with everyday life find time for his/herself?” The simple answer: You do, if it really matters. It mattered a lot … I knew I mattered a lot. I learned with just a bit of self-love and self-care, I would be a better person all the way around. I would even like myself a bit more! Being a calm mommy topped the list of importance, and without re-charging my battery on a daily basis, I was not going to be a very happy and calm mommy with everything on my plate. So, I took notice. I found ways to wedge in bits and pieces of “me time” all day long. One strategy I found was leveraging my work commute. I listened to uplifting recordings, books, or music. What was key here is I paid attention to what I needed, and wanted … and I honored it. We have to feel worthy enough to honor what we deeply need. Isn’t it obvious when we’ve taken a bit of time out for ourselves, we’re so much happier and pleasant to be around? This has certainly been true for me. The other thing I frequently did was to drive my mini-van to a quiet neighborhood on my lunch hour. I’d find a nice shady tree to park under and leisurely eat my lunch, read a book, or listen to a tape … and many times I’d take a power nap. When the babies were young, this was a life-saver! I love that I loved myself that much, even “back then!” (Wow, she says to herself as she types) Notice that none of these activities took time away from anyone else. So often (especially women), we feel unworthy or guilty to take time away from our families when we work outside the home. I’m here to remind you, you are worthy – you are worth it – and you are valuable to everyone around you! Life is meant to be enjoyed! Our fast-paced society demands we find creative ways to reconnect to ourselves, to God – the Universe – the Divine. Coming “home” to ourselves feels like love, it feels like happiness, and it feels like a re-connection to what’s most important. I hope my story provides you with the inspiration to find a few nourishing moments for self-love and self-care each and every day. I call them gentle pauses … just a short a few moments can work miracles. Take time to love yourself. I promise you won’t regret it!
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