I wanted to write about self love and taking time for you! I know that seems kind of crazy during this time in the world, writing about loving yourself, but this is important now more than ever. We (as people, as parents, as employees, as family members) are tired and we are stressed. We are in the midst of a pandemic, we have civil rights issues we need to address as a country, we are wondering about school plans for the fall, job security, etc and we need to make it through this marathon. These issues are going to be present in our lives for a long time and we need to make it to the other side. For us to be able to do that, we need to learn to take time for ourselves. We need to learn to love ourselves and give ourselves what we need to keep fighting these battles on a daily basis.
I have had the opportunity to have a week off of work. I also have childcare (which is a blessing). So I sent my children to their amazing daycare lady’s house and I had a week to myself. A whole 5 days where I could do whatever I wanted for the day. I haven’t had that opportunity since I have had children (3.5 years ago). I chose not to feel guilty about taking this week for myself. I love my children and I have spent lots of time with them during quarantine. Looking back over this week, I am SO glad I made time for myself. I needed this refuel time. I was able to paint our garage (yes, that is a thing) and I learned how to fix small dry wall holes and about different finishes of paint. I was able to go for a run multiple days. I walked my dog countless times. I drank my coffee hot. I went to the store a couple of times without having to rush home (while wearing a mask and avoiding people). I re-finished a coffee table for our living room. I ordered some shelving for our garage. I cleaned the basement. I got our library cards. I got our cars registered in new state. I got the dog’s nails trimmed. I read a book. I did the laundry. I relaxed and drank beer with my lunch.
I love doing these types of projects and getting stuff done. Those things I listed above provided me with so much happiness. I felt so accomplished. I was able to relax some and I never felt bad about it. I needed some self love and to remind myself that I am that same person I was before children. That person who loves creative projects, learning new things and has energy to tackle a To Do List. I was able to just hang out with my family over the weekend and I even put off the grocery store trip, because it was stressing me out.
So after hearing all these things I did with my free time, how have you learned to love yourself? You might not be able to take a week away from your children and that’s ok. Also you may hate projects and this list of things I did, stresses you out. That is fine if that isn’t your jam. Find things that make you feel happy and enlightened. What are you able to do each day to show and remind yourself that you are amazing?! Taking some time for you goes a long way in keeping your attitude positive and encouraging you through this crazy time in the world.
This self love is important for you, but also sharing that love with your partner matters as well. I was chatting with my husband about how proud of him I was and that he does a great job. Then I reminded him that he needs to love himself. I will always be that cheerleader for him, but he needs to turn that love and support inwards and love himself too. How you view yourself impacts your outlook on your life. So plan some time (it can even be a 20 minute bath or face mask session) to dedicate to you and don’t feel bad about it. Embrace that need to take time for you and find those things that make you happy.
