If you are like me, 2020 and January have left me mentally drained with lack of inspiration. It has brought me to remember that self-care is an essential part of our well-being as well as our company’s well-being. We all know self care is important, but why is it so hard?
Sleep isn’t an option; it is a foundational need for survival and being able to thrive. During this last year and month, I feel depleted. I’ve spent many hours in these challenging days supporting my peers, clients and family as they go through these terrible times of worry and suffering. It has taken a mental toll on all of us.
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 these uncertain and dreadful situations in the world. The demand for problem-solving skills and immediate responses creates an unbelievable amount of tension, no matter what role you play in life.
So, what should we plan to do about it?
Remember, something is better than nothing when it comes to self care. 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 you like! Reading has always been a way to stir my brain and allow 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 hilltop 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
Whether it is camping, exploring, reading or creating we have to find something that our hearts can thrive on.
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 overwhelmed, unload your burden by doing the opposite and providing yourself with love and care. Self care is important.