As a woman, it can be easy to get caught up in taking care of everyone else's needs before our own. Wearing multiple hats throughout the day is likely par for the course and we may feel guilty or selfish for taking time for ourselves. However, taking care of yourself is essential for your overall well-being, including physical and mental health.
The above is simple at face value, but applying it is a labyrinth of twists, turns, and negotiations to make it a reality. We see you, we hear you, and we understand you. Let's dive in together and unravel not only the importance of setting boundaries to prioritize "me time" and fitness but HOW to make it a reality for the busy woman that are wearing “all the hats.”
Setting and enforcing boundaries is crucial for creating a healthy work-life balance. Without boundaries, we may find ourselves constantly stressed and overwhelmed, with no time or energy left for ourselves. We are left agitated, grumpy, and lashing out at the very people that can be the support we need to stop the cycle. By setting clear boundaries, we can ensure that we have time to focus on our own needs, including fitness and self-care.
One way to set boundaries is to establish a regular workout routine. This can be as simple as scheduling time each day or week to exercise, whether that's a yoga class, a run outdoors, or a gym session. By committing to a regular fitness routine, you'll not only improve your physical health but also your mental health. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and increase overall energy levels. So that time you invest in yourself may pay off in spades when you feel a bit more pep in your step.
Tips:
Write it down--seeing that appointment solidifies that time is spoken for not only in your mind but signals to your family, friends, etc. that you are unavailable. Put it on the calendar, block it out so you can't schedule meetings, and get comfortable saying "I have plans"
Book the class--If you are going to a structured class, pay for your spots ahead of time. No one wants to waste money and we are less likely to skip it knowing we would be doing so.
Make it a date--regardless if it's your significant other or friend maybe share your me time with them to help hold you accountable. Showing up for yourself can be hard but ditching plans with someone else is even harder for most of us.
Another way to prioritize "me time" is to set boundaries around your work and personal life. This could mean setting specific work hours and sticking to them, or saying "no" to work-related tasks or events that conflict with your personal time. It can also mean setting aside time each week for activities that you enjoy, such as reading, painting, or spending time with friends and family. You'll feel more fulfilled and energized by prioritizing your own needs and interests.
We work to live, not live to work. Just like Ferris Bueller said “Life Moves Pretty Fast. If You Don't Stop And Look Around Once In A While, You Could Miss It.”
Don't have someone in your day-to-day life who "gets" it or feels like you need a fresh pair of eyes that can help you navigate a busy schedule? A coach may be the missing piece of the puzzle to make all of those unstructured and conflicting ideas fit together in perfect harmony. A coach can help you create a personalized plan that takes into account your specific needs/goals and provide guidance and support along the way, helping you stay accountable and motivated.
A coach can help you navigate barriers or challenges that may be preventing you from prioritizing yourself, such as time constraints or feelings of guilt. Together, you can work to create strategies to overcome these obstacles and stay on track. (Yes, the 90's game Mario Cart is exactly what we picture)
Having a coach by your side also provides valuable feedback and encouragement as you work towards your goals. They can help you celebrate your successes and adjust your plan as needed to ensure that you are making progress toward your desired outcomes. By having someone in your corner, cheering you on, and providing guidance along the way, you'll be more likely to achieve your goals and feel empowered.
Regardless of how you apply the above tips, ideals, and values it's important to remember that setting boundaries is not about being selfish or uncaring. It's about taking care of yourself so that you can be your best self for those around you and ENJOY life, not dread every day. When you prioritize your own well-being, you'll be better equipped to handle life's challenges, both big and small.
When in doubt, repeat after us: Taking care of yourself is not selfish, it's essential.