I have found myself overwhelmed without needing to be. My mind has been constantly creating a running list of things that need to be accomplished. Yet, I was completing none of them. I then forced myself to stop, slow down and take 15 minutes. I am going to guess that anyone reading this may need to do the same thing.
As much as I am aware of my self care needs, the high achieving perfectionist can very easily spin out of control. I multi task but realize I am not doing my best. I then move to analyzing what is most important to do and everything seems important. I develop analysis paralysis.
15 minutes can seem like a large amount of time. At the same time, it is such a small amount to time. 900 seconds when you break it down.
Having multiple focuses also makes it hard to relax. Recently I found myself enjoying my Sunday evening bath but I was reading a book related to work. Although I was enjoying the book,it wasn’t necessarily relaxing. I was smart enough to put the book down and simply enjoy the bath.
Today I’m started an extended weekend vacation. Our first in almost 6 months. As in my typical fashion, I attempt to accomplish more than I need to in the days leading up to departure. As a result, I put off posting on my regular schedule, as I just didn’t think I had time. After all, there is always one more thing that needs to be done!
My challenge for you in today’s try this at home is to slow down and take 15 minutes. Even if you think you don’t have the time, you do.
If 15 minutes:
- You can take stretch, take a short walk and remind yourself to breathe.
- Watch a funny video. Research is showing that cute animal videos rapidly improve your mood.
- Simply sit and take note of your surroundings. It is surprising how little we pay attention to where we are at. Currently, I am sitting at Salt Lake City Airport. It is raining and very relaxing to watch the rain against the window.
15 minutes can renew a tired mind and create energy for the list that never seems to end. Try it and see how you feel.
Do you struggle with slowing down and taking 15 minutes to relax?
Try this at home is a weekly series offering tips and suggestions for way to live a happier life.
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