As I get ready to Spring Clean ME starting next week, I am prepping for creating a more solid routine for myself and I wanted to share some of my tips for creating some calm and intention with you.
We all know that kids thrive off routine and I spend so much energy helping the boys feel like they have a solid routine but lately (ok, fine, since this summer), my own days and weeks have been a bit off script and chaotic.
For example, I used to always get my workouts in in the mornings but some habits and routines for the kids changed making that not an option for me so for the last 6 months or so I've just been getting them in whenevs... which is not only inconsistent, but actually quite stressful and guilt inducing (and if I haven't hammered this point enough, I'll say it again: stress and guilt are no good for the mind or body!).
Tip 1: Create Space –
I'm starting by taking back my mornings. No more excuses. I came up with a plan to make an early morning work for me and not freak out the kids and it's happening. Okay, so today's my first go at it – but so far so good!
That one is a must. Not necessarily the early morning, but find the time to make it work. No more, "There aren't enough hours in the day" talk. I SO wish I could find you (and me!) some more hours, but it's literally not going to happen. So let's create the space we need. For me it's a morning of getting started on work, knocking some things off my to-do list, drinking hot coffee, and getting my day planned.
This way I have a space right after I drop off the kids to get in my workout and me-time before I dive back in to my work day. AND And, I will then shower, put on some "real clothes" and *gasp* some makeup and start my work day feeling like the bad-ass I am, rather than starting the day feeling stressed and moving through the day (life?!) without a clear plan.
Tip 2: Make a Plan –
What do you need in your days and weeks? What's important to you in life? How can you decrease (or eliminate!) recurring feelings of guilt or even shame?
Sit down daily at first, and then weekly, to take time to map out your upcoming days or week. Make 3 columns:
What do you need to get done in that time?
What do you want to get done in that time?
What are the things that are causing unwanted stress or guilt? (and come up with a strategy to reduce or eliminate it)
And then literally, draw out a calendar and schedule your days. If that freaks you out because you are a beautiful bird on the ocean breeze and you need your freedom, don't worry! You are just creating a template and there is plenty of space within there to do you and be spontaneous (you can even schedule that!). This is not a cage, it's actually helping you create the freedom and space you need to bloom and spread your wings!
Tip 3: Nurture a loving relationship with YOU
I don't know about you, but this is one relationship that I often forget to nurture! I told you my 5 rules for having a successful day in a past post and that includes being kind to myself, which I really do make sure to do, but kindness is not the same as actively developing a healthy relationship.
Recently I have consistently been adding a power statement to my day (thanks for the push, Mike and Crystalee!), and I have to say, it's had a huge impact on me. Speaking out loud the beliefs I want to have in myself, reminding myself of the traits and loving people I already have in myself and my life on the reg has done wonders for keeping me happy and grateful even as I've been pushing through survival mode for the last...well...it's been too long.
I was also gifted these beautiful daily affirmation cards and I am STOKED!* The power statement I say to myself daily has been amazing and now I can add in a new card each morning to create some more dynamic focus on my strengths and self love. This company even has a set for kids. I love that!
Alright you guys, got that?
Respond here and let me know your power statement! Or at least let me know that you will commit to trying it out! Or, better yet, join the challenge with me and make it stick - enrollment will be closing THIS Friday at 10am PST. Apply here!