I am excited that this week (while I’m running away to one of my favorite Caribbean islands) I get to introduce you to some wonderful women in my life. They are strong wonderful women each impacting the world in different ways. They have each made my life better for being in it.
Today’s post is from my friend Colene, otherwise known as Coach Colene. We met working together on a committee for Junior League of Lexington and I knew from the beginning that Colene was dynamic and an entrepreneur. Over the past year she has established her success coach business where she is providing workshops and individual sessions to those desiring to make changes in their careers/lives. Today is she is offering a challenge for each of us during the month of May…. one we each need to take!
Sheryl and I both have a passion for empowering individuals to live a life of their making. I love the art of self-care, because it’s something that is often forgotten and completely overlooked. Most of us spend so much of our time taking care of others that we are constantly placed on our own back-burners. This means we are waiting to arrive at some magical place where all of our to-do lists are checked off, all of our family members are in a great place, and everything is perfect BEFORE we choose to take care of ourselves.
I have to tell you, that will never happen. One of my favorite songs is Incomplete by Alanis Morissette. In it she talks about finally realizing the beauty of being “forever incomplete”. Stop what you’re doing and listen to it right now:
See, there is something freeing about the acceptance that perfection is HIGHLY overrated. I’m not suggesting that you never shoot for greatness, but allow yourself the flexibility to be incomplete. Now that we’ve cleared that out of the way, lets talk about why self-care is so important to you and your loved ones.
I truly believe that if you are not caring for yourself, you can not fully care for others. I’ve heard it described something like this before… You have a cup and it’s full of your favorite summer drink (for me it’s sweet tea). You’re so excited about your drink. Then your child comes up and ask you to pour some into their cup. You love your child, so you do. Then your friend comes by and ask you to pour some into their cup. Your significant other asks for some. Your neighbor asks for some. Before you know it, your cup is completely empty. You never even had the chance to enjoy your drink. How do you feel about that? You want to refill your cup, right?
That’s exactly what happens when you constantly give and give and give of yourself to others, and never allow yourself to experience the love yourself. Now, I know what some of you are thinking… It’s selfish to think about yourself, or make yourself a priority. WRONG-O! You don’t win a gold medal for constantly putting others above yourself. Doing so leads to burnout, exhaustion, and sickness. Trust me, I’ve been there.
So, I have a monthly challenge for May. It’s called, “Yes, I May…” I want to inspire you to say, “Yes, I May take care of myself.” “Yes, I May treat myself to something new.” “Yes, I may make myself a priority.” You’re worth it.
I know it can be an overwhelming concept if you’ve never practiced self-care. Don’t worry, I’ll help you out! I’ll give you a focus area for each week and some ideas to get started. You don’t have to use my ideas; in fact, I hope you come up with something even more uniquely you and fabulous! Click here for the challenge:
It will be fun! Invite your friends… They deserve the gift of self-care as well.
Can’t wait to see all your updates! #YesIMay #SelfCare #CoachColene
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