Putting Yourself On A Timeout

In just a few short weeks…the year 2020 will end. It is crazy how fast time has gone by and many of us cannot wait to wrap the year up and start fresh. Yes…I want that “do-over” too.

I don’t know about you, but I am “Zoom-ed” out, on news overload, tired of looking at the same space, etc. Geesh!

For the remainder of the year, I am putting myself on a Time-Out. Yep, I am sending myself to my room to think about some things - all the big and small things I have accomplished this year and most importantly to give myself a much-needed break.

What about you? When was the last time you took a time-out? Yesterday? Last week? Last month? Can’t remember? Maybe that time is now?

I get it. Ok. You can’t even think about it. There is the family, work, the kids, and many other things that take priority. But let me ask you this…” when are YOU a priority?” Are you consistently saying to yourself...” well I will make time when the kids get older, when my money is right or when things settle down. ““You know what? I am going to take some time tomorrow.” …but you never make the time.

We have all heard the saying (or some similar version) “tomorrow is not promised.” 2020 has been a true testament to that. Can I get a witness?! Here is my point…today is the time…now…right now for you to take a Time-Out. Studies have shown that taking a moment has great benefits – both psychologically and physically.

I read that by putting yourself on a time out…"You achieve a renewed sense of clarity and focus with an inspired mind filled with creative insight."

How do you know if you need a time-out? Well, raise your hand if you are exhausted? Overextended? Overwhelmed? Ready to just snap-off at any moment? If this is you…um… you may need a minute.

Investing in yourself should encompass 3 main areas…Mind…Body and Spirit. When we neglect these 3 areas, the neglect shows up in our lives whether we notice it or not. It shows up in our family, our career, in our relationships and sometimes even our health. The point is that you are not being any good to anyone else let alone yourself. Taking care of what you need in your mental, physical, and spiritual health will give you what you need to live a happy and healthy life.

Now I realize that all of this may not be new to you. I am simply challenging you to design your own “time-out” plan.

Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Create a priority list and add yourself as number 1. Schedule some “me” time and stick to it. No rainchecks are allowed.

• Get a massage or take a long, hot bath/shower. These common ideas are not only relaxing but have been known to reduce anxiety and depression.

• Just be. Choose to do nothing—don’t read, watch TV…simply take a seat.

• Take 5. Have 5 minutes? Take a moment to breathe and let your mind just wander. Now the first time you do this… your mind may wander all over the place and that is ok. Breathe and release. Practice makes perfect.

• Walk. Have 15 minutes? Go for a nice walk, embrace nature’s beauty and focus on being present.

• Self-reflection. Have 30 minutes? Jot down some notes of self-reflection in a journal. Reflect on what you accomplished this year or the lessons you learned.

• Laugh or cry…either is ok to do. You are giving yourself probably the release you need right now.

• Take a day off from negative or draining people. Sometimes you simply need to put others on pause. Taking in someone else’s energy can sometimes be overwhelming.

• Pamper yourself. Give yourself a mani-pedi, facial or whatever your self-care/beauty routine is.

• Go on a tech fast. These days we may find that we are tethered to our technical devices. Turn your cell phone off, shut down your computer, for an hour…longer if you can.

• Love on yourself. This is one of my favorites! Grab some Post-it™ Notes, write some inspirational notes to yourself (e.g. YOU are amazing!, YOU are beautiful!, YOU deserve it!) You get the idea. Place those love notes on a mirror that you look in every day and as you admire your beautiful reflection you should be reminded of just how deserving you are.

Whatever it takes… you will not regret it.

What are you going to do during your time-out?

Angela Marcella is a Chi-town girl who is a self-defined introvert but those who know her know she is a beast and kindred spirit at best. She is an Entrepreneur, Speaker, Author, IT Professional & Empowerment Influencer. She is also founder of the Angela Marcella Group LLC which helps small business owners with online support needed to help them step out of their comfort zones and run their businesses with confidence. Learn more about her at https://theangelamarcella.com