Are you doing this? Probably not.
At least not when you really need to because that's when old patterns and habits can take over.
What am I talking about?
Unless you've never be on an airplane, you know the drill: In the event of an emergency, or the cabin pressure drops, put on your oxygen mask before you attempt to help someone else. It makes total sense.
You can't help someone else when you're gasping for air.
We all know it, but when we really need it we can forget to put our own oxygen mask on before helping someone else.
I've recently had a great reminder as I refreshed myself on my resilience coach training that I took almost 7 years ago.
Resilience, I was reminded, is not about bouncing back, it's about being centered in the storm, utilizing your resources and then, moving forward.
There are many tools I have in my toolkit that I haven't been using...that I've forgotten about. The timeliness of this training is not lost on me.
How about you?
How are you when unexpected situations come up, or another "thing" is added to your pile?
What's your response?
It takes discipline and practice to put yourself first, especially if you're a female, because caring for others needs seems to be innate. It can take more effort to remember to pause and ensure that you're in your best state to manage yourself first.
Now that we're talking about it, what are your practices...what's in your self-care toolkit?
For me?
Time walking in nature.
Intentional breathing.
Being creative.
Your list may be completely different. The point is that curating your own list is important. Having and practicing those activities regularly so that they're honed and always available whenever you may need them.
I just had a timely reminder of what resilience is and the toolkit I have available to me. Now it's your turn.
Are you ready?
Let's get to it...
Your challenge...
Now it's your turn and the first question is...
Do you have a self-care toolkit?
If the answer's yes...are you utilizing it?
If not here's your reminder.
If you don't have a toolkit, no worries, you can get started right now.
Here are a few simple suggestions:
Breathwork you can do anywhere.
Time in nature.
Good quality sleep.
Small tweaks that add up so you can be centered in the storms when they inevitably come and move forward rather than bounce back.
I see you. I've got your back and...
Remember...
You can only push for so long before your body, your mood, your motivation, and ultimately your health...hit a wall.
Take care of yourself first. Always.
Don't have an oxygen mask? Contact me
Cheers,
Ann
Are you doing this? Probably not…