I have spent the last three weeks on Maui. I decided to keep track of "how" I was resting so that I might be able to get the most out of the days away from work. Seems I get a bit better each vacation, but this time, I noticed some things important to the "resting" process. The first four days of my time here was great however, work consumed me. I had some last minute things occur which threw me off and generally in my preparation to "leave", I am getting myself ready mentally as well. Some events created thoughts, need for change, and some action two days prior to my leaving. I left home with all of those details in my head, questions unanswered, and it filled my head. I knew that in order for me to fully rest, I had to "let go". To do that, I had to tie up some details that were pending and I had to begin the process of reducing the details so that I was not dwelling on them. I made a couple of calls, delegated, and made the decision to wait until vacation was over do handle the rest. I knew I would be better equipped to handle things after I was rested.
After the first few days...I felt myself give way to the fresh air, the blue sky and of course for me the sunshine! We have had such a long winter and so many grey skies in Washington, I was ready to feel the sun on my face. As I rested in the sun and tried to dose off, I felt myself leaning toward the "work" again...those details that make my business successful...the details that keep my mind occupied! It was time to work on the letting go again...so I began to read. I read a couple of books that were romance novels, and I read a book about changing habits. I read a book about Oprah and decided that I really have a lot of the same leadership qualities, which made me feel good about myself, and I read many magazines about nothing...By the sixth day, I began to enjoy. I felt myself resting!
As I have enjoyed these days on Maui, I have determined it is about balance. Balancing time and energy with health and well being. Balancing time and making the most of each day. I have enjoyed quiet mornings, walks on the beach, time with my husband, time with my daughter and grandchildren. Some of the favorite time I have had, has been time with myself. Although I love my family, time spent with myself allows me time to listen to my heart and to hear God speak to me. It allows me to focus on the most important things, and leaves me feeling refreshed along with a new perspective I have a very creative mind. Although I feel blessed with my creativity, on the flip side my mind rarely shuts down. Ideas are rolling all the time! A new vision for future ideas, a different or better was of doing business, a project, a change that will increase productivity. It is constant. This kind of creativity takes energy so for me quiet time is critical for me to stay balanced. I know I am a workaholic, but I also know and am aware of this and am diligent to watch for the tendencies to arise. I have learned resting is IMPORTANT!
Remember to take time to rest. Whether you are on vacation...or daily at home, the need for your body to rejuvenate is critical to your health and your success. I have come to value it, need it more and more, and wish I had really "rested" more when I was younger. It is never too late to change habits, to make yourself a priority, and to give yourself what you need.
Are you resting your body? Are you giving yourself what you need? I do admit that on Maui is is easier than at home, and I have enjoyed a good long rest. I need it! I give away much of myself throughout the year, and if I did not give myself this time, I would not be as effective.
Give yourself a break today. I appreciate your work as women, your attention to detail, your love for your families and your work, whatever it is. Give yourself a break this weekend, and take time for YOU.
Aloha
Lynnette
