Today I took a bath. I stopped. All of the hustle, all of the errands, all of the holiday ups and downs. All of my relatives, friends, and family who were visiting or otherwise waited. I put them on hold for a significant person. Me.
I mixed my essential oils with some Epsom salts, I lit some candles, I grabbed a book, put on some soft nature music, I shut the door, and I relaxed. I did not think, I did not plan, I did not speak. I put myself first. Mr. Burnout will not catch up with me today. No. Today I listened to the captain of my soul. Me. She told me to take a moment. I did not put her off, I did not make excuses, I did not say “perhaps later,” I obeyed the captain, and I am a better person for it. I feel amazing. I granted myself the gift of a pause so that I can continue with the cause!
My friends and family deserve a fully present me. A me that is attentive and hanging on every last word that they are speaking. My clients deserve my undivided attention, and I cannot give them that if I am split emotionally, mentally, and physically. Today I took a bath. It was glorious!
When was the last time you were actually kind to yourself? Selfish with yourself? When was the last time you said, “right now is for me? I will not feel guilty”? You do not need to make a resolution or shallow promise you will not keep. No need to over-commit yourself either. I would like to encourage you to gift yourself with a pause. It is not overrated. It is quite necessary and if you practice, guess what? Repetition=Retention. YOu will create a perfect habit that your body and the captain of your soul will thank you for. In the end, you will enjoy the return you get from investing in yourself.