Elizabeth's Year of Extreme Self Care
This is my theme for the year and I love it. Every time I say it, it makes me smile! But during the first few weeks of the year as I was pondering what I wanted my theme for 2008 to be, I resisted claiming this. It felt selfish or too egocentric or too indulgent.
I've talked with several clients in the past few weeks about this notion of self care and I'm amazed at how many of us resist this idea. We are programmed to take care of others, put others' needs and concerns before our own, give, give, give until it hurts and then give some more.
What's the end result usually? We end up wearing cranky pants! We become tired, overworked, overwhelmed, under appreciated, resentful, unhealthy, cranky, crabby and noone wants to hang out with us and then we don't even want to hang out with ourselves anymore because we are miserable.
That is not a fun way to live and if you recognize elements of this in your own life, I encourage you to stop now and take a hard look. You can make some changes right now that will benefit you for the short-term and the long-term!
Claiming Elizabeth's Year of Extreme Self Care reminds me that I deserve to treat myself with love and attention. What are the benefits?
- I am balanced, happy and whole
- I feel solid and confident about my life and who I am
- I am able to be fully present for the people in my life (family, friends, clients, colleagues) who need me
- I'm more fun to be around because I am enjoying life
- I'm more productive in every area of my life
- I'm a more insightful coach, a more loving wife, a patient and caring friend, an enthusiastic networker who enjoys meeting new people
What if you claimed this year as YOUR year of Extreme Self Care? How could that change your life?
Cranky Pants
Hey Elizabeth, I love this idea and have implemented it in my life since the middle of January. I needed to concentrate on myself, and yes, it did feel awkward in the beginning. Since my decision, I have moved out on my own with my dog, (wonderful) Have gotten three new fantastic jobs and two more offers, am losing the pounds that I put on and have gotten rid of the negative in my life whether it was a person or a thing. I decided to be more, without all the drama. NO MORE CRANKY PANTS!