Just like many of you, I feel exhausted and uninspired after a long 2020 and grueling January. I know self-care is essential to my well-being, but it’s honestly hard.
Sleep is not an option; it is a fundamental need, and during the last year and month, I feel depleted. I have spent some of the most challenging days at my desk this year listening to my peers, clients, and family worrying and suffering, and it has taken a toll on me.
For many of us, 2020 has left us feeling insecure; even those who are financially unshaken have different concerns, including how to offer help to others. Nobody seems to be immune to the dreaded present situations in the world. The demand for problem-solving skills and immediate responses creates an unbelievable amount of tension no matter what you role in life.
So, what am I planning to do about it?
Take-care-of-yourself
Well, anything feels better than nothing. The first step is to get dressed (really, take a shower, and put on clean clothes). I have washed fewer clothes this year - which is something to celebrate, and my laundry couch thanks me for being used for more than a staging spot.
Next, DO something I like! Reading has always been a way to stir my brain and allows me to explore new ideas, and provides guidance and direction.
This year was full of camping adventures, this picture is my son, Clayton looking over the hill top at Robbers Cave, Outings are fun and relaxing, OK.
Liz Scott's son Clayton on an outing at Robbers Cave State Park near Wilburton, Oklahoma
Liz-son-clayton-at-robbers-cave-ok
Start with doing the opposite. For every negative conversation, thought, or feeling, react with self-care. For example, if my phone rings with a tough call, I take a walk after. Even walking just my block provides a new perspective.
Constant tension leads to trauma, so you need to take care of your body and give back to it. Here are a few tips inspired by my body, friends, and pups.
- Sleep – make it a point to rest
- Walk the dog – your furry friend(s) is/are bored
- Take a shower – water cleans more than your body
- Change clothes – day 3 in your PJs gets really old (who knew)
- Eat the rainbow – thanks, Shelly, for sharing your color container tip
- Say no – you don’t need to rescue everyone
- Go for a drive – in other words, get out of the house
- Move your laptop outside – thanks, Nick, for reminding me we are virtual, even if it’s just our porch
- Clean the (home) office – not sure about yours, but mine looks neglected
- Schedule self-care time – it doesn’t take much (a little goes a long way)
Remember, when you feel overstretched, unload your burden by doing the opposite and providing yourself with love and care.