If you are running at a 9 out of 10 most days, how do you take care of the child that is at a 12 out of ten? How do you deal with the rude person at the store, or a boss that doesn’t appreciate you? Whether you blow up on the spot or hold it in and freak out later the answer is still the same… it’s not a good reaction.
When your stress levels are higher our triggers and stressors seem bigger to us. We react differently to something depending on our stress levels at the time.
Parents have said to me my children react differently because I react differently to the situation and them. When you have two people having temper tantrums and fighting each other, the situation is blown into huge explosive proportions. Then we walk away more frustrated than when we started.
So how do you turn the volume down on your stress and negative emotions? Take time each day to do something for yourself. When your body is relaxed your mind will become more relaxed.
I know, I know… I have NO time for myself! I hear it all the time. So make time, make yourself a priority. If you continue to pile on the stress and don’t deal with it , it will lead to more explosions, negative feelings such as resentment, frustration, and depression.
You might be doing things already that you don’t give yourself credit for:
- taking a bath 2. reading 3. getting a massage, mani or pedi 4. taking the dog for a walk 5. hanging out with friends 6. talking to friends on the phone 7. stretching 8. going to bed early
Start off small and work up to bigger things. What did you used to do? What would you like to do now?
Make a list of the things you do and the things you like to do. Is there big discrepancies between the lists?
How do you make it happen?
- put it into your routine 2. announce it 3. do it with a friend 4. put a reminder in your phone 5. put a reminder on a sticky note 6. sign up for a class, event, fundraiser etc.
What gets in the way of you getting it done?
Think of those obstacles like the bricks in a wall. Start taking them down one at a time. Write down what gets in the way.
Is it your children, job, partner, lack of sleep, money, time or motivation?
If your issue is money come up with some solutions. For example find free yoga class in the community, borrow a dvd from the library, or find a you tube video to watch.
You can do this, you just have to make yourself a priority. Having children does not mean you lose yourself. Use this an opporutnity to better yourself and push yourself to the next level. Continue making goals! You will feel better, motivate others around you and be a great role model to your kids.
I believe in you!
