I felt so tired this entire week. Literally, fatigued. I have my hand in different projects, including writing daily for this blog. On top of that, my teenage cousin is visiting me from the state of Georgia, so I’ve been trying to find ways to keep him entertained in my normally boring little world.
If that’s not enough, I’m also caring for a sick little girl — my daughter is fighting a cold with a nasty, runny nose, and has been extremely fussy. Needless to say, I was feeling pulled in so many directions this week. Today, I felt I just couldn’t focus on anything resembling productivity until I gave myself a much-needed b-r-e-a-k.
So, what did I do? I took a nap. Actually, I took about three. Yes, it’s not even 2:30 in the afternoon (as of this moment), and I’ve already taken three naps today. I waited until the baby went down for her naps, of course, and then I curled up on the bed and shut my eyes to the world.
Most of us don’t have the luxury of taking naps in the middle of the day. I am a unique (and fortunate) case because I work from home.
But I’m sure you can relate to this level of fatigue. We all reach a point when we just can’t go any further until we have a chance to recharge and take care of ourselves. Some of us though, keep going and going at the detriment of our work, health, sanity, and overall well-being.
If you find yourself constantly burning the midnight oil, or running yourself ragged. It’s time to stop and ask yourself “Why?”
What’s your response? Are you worn out . . . for your job? For your spouse? For your kids? For some intangible thing in the future? If you haven’t done it already, it’s time to prioritize. This week, sit down and write out what your dreams are, how they originated, and why you’ve decided to pursue them. Also, take some time out for yourself doing something you, and you alone, will enjoy.
Recharge. Replenish. Refocus. It’s okay to take some time to care for yourself if it means you’ll be a better person for those around you, and you’ll be more productive at achieving your dreams as a result.
I can certainly tell you this: I was way more attentive to my daughter’s needs and that of my other responsibilities once I rose from that third nap.
Keep the Discussion Going
How do you spend your “me-time”? Going to the spa? Getting your nails done? Indulging in a hobby? Exercising? Vegging out in front of the television? Going to the movies or out to eat with friends? Playing board games with family? Driving to no particular destination, aimlessly? Taking a nap (or three)?
Share your recharge story with us. And feel free to give any other family-friendly ideas on how to recharge.
