Hey everyone! Today, I am talking about rest, one of my favorite topics. The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to set goals and resolutions for the coming year. But have you ever considered making rest your priority instead of going all out with the usual resolutions? Burnout is real. So, how about switching things around this time and giving preference to rest and self-care? I am not suggesting you should ditch your dreams, but I would like to challenge you to include rest, revitalization, and self-care in your resolutions instead of just setting exhausting challenges for yourself.
Rethinking Rest
As someone who works closely with parents, particularly moms navigating life transitions, I have developed a set of principles that extend beyond parenting. They are a guide to living well. In my book, I explore these principles, and a theme that stands out is the importance of rest. In our fast-paced world, the concept of rest often gets tangled in the web of time constraints and misconceptions. So, I want to challenge the traditional view of rest and encourage you to shift your mindset and think of it as rejuvenation or a reset instead of a shutdown because rest is not something you need to earn. Rest is a fundamental need for living a fulfilling life.
Knowing Yourself is the First Step
Understanding what rest means is the first step toward incorporating it into your life. Instead of viewing rest as a shutdown, consider it a means of rejuvenation and renewal. The challenge is to know yourself well enough to recognize when you are approaching burnout and identify the activities that genuinely replenish your energy. From a quiet walk in the woods to indulging in a good book, rest comes in various forms. The key is discovering what makes you feel revitalized and incorporating those activities regularly.
Aligning Actions with Goals
Knowing your end game is crucial in the journey to finding rest. It involves reflecting on why you do what you do, whether in your career, relationships, or personal pursuits. Intentionally aligning your actions with your goals allows you to create a path that leads to fulfillment. This step requires questioning your routines and ensuring they contribute to your desired outcomes. Whether seeking peace, family time, or career advancement, understanding your motivations is still pivotal.
Choosing Curiosity Over Judgment and Granting Yourself Grace
Approaching the process with curiosity rather than judgment is essential. Be curious about why you have chosen a particular path and what truly brings you joy. This mindset allows you the grace to explore without the weight of self-criticism. By fostering curiosity, you can uncover insights into your desires, preferences, and areas for improvement. This step sets the stage for self-discovery and paves the way for meaningful change.
Consistency and Persistence: The Key to Restful Living
The final step is to be consistent and persistent in your pursuit of rest. That involves translating your newfound self-awareness into actionable steps that you can seamlessly integrate into your daily life. You will need a well-thought-out plan rooted in self-understanding and to stay consistant when pursuing a goal. Whether you choose a daily ritual, a weekly activity, or a monthly retreat, make sure your commitment to rest is sustainable and aligned with your authentic needs.
Me Time
In today’s Me Time segment, I discuss a few of the shows I use to help me relax. While some shows, like Hallmark movies, may feel disassociative or emotionally draining, I find three shows surprisingly rejuvenating. First up is The Bear, an emotional rollercoaster that, despite its intensity, fills me up whenever I need a boost. Then, there is the well-known and feel-good favorite, Ted Lasso, a treat that leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling. New Girl, with its absurdly funny humor, is another show I enjoy. It often reminds me of family moments. Lastly, the British crime show Slow Horses may seem counterintuitive as a restful choice because it is slow-paced and sometimes frustrating to follow, but its thoughtfulness and pacing seem to energize me. Despite their differences, these shows have become my favorite restful me-time companions. While they may not be new recommendations, they remain my favorites- especially in times of limited new content due to strikes.
As you embark on your journey toward a more restful and fulfilling life, remember that the answer to Am I a bad mom is always no.
Until next time!
Links and resources:
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