On the 5th day of Year-End, I learned to give myself…A Break
Author: Erin Louw, Xena Founder & Executive
Maturity comes when you learn to accept that you don’t have the answers to everything in life. Especially for the things that hurt or drain you. Heal anyway.
Taking a break at the end of the year is equally important to giving yourself a break from the things that you didn’t get to. In the desperate rush to tie up loose ends, we often don’t stop and reflect on the blessing of life – another trip around the sun – and in doing so neglecting to celebrate the big (and small) wins.
To plan your next move into a new year with fresh plans and grande ambitions, understand where your growth comes from by making a clean break.
As is the case with any relationship, your relationship with the previous year will have a direct impact on every year thereafter. Give yourself permission to stop, rest and reflect.
Stop.
Balance feelings of guilt towards family obligations with your need for me-time. Festive celebrations and family time can be a joyful time for some and highly stressful for others. Even in a room filled with friends and family, some people can feel extremely isolated and lonely.
Rest.
Whether your self-care list contains a day curled up with a book or lying on your bed listening to music, learn to prioritise yourself and take things one at a time. Assess whether your cup feels full or empty after these social engagements and give yourself a break when you need to adjust your days accordingly.
Reflect.
If there is anything we can learn from the previous 2 years, it’s that we can expect the unexpected. With kids, partner responsibilities, and caring duties, leave room for regular reflection and acknowledge that your routine will probably change again. Write down what is important and schedule those first – giving you something to look forward to. Meditating through daily routines and new business relationships not only prepares us mentally, but also physically and makes the new and unfamiliar a little less so.
Uncertainty is stressful for anyone, but it also comes with a sense of excitement and adventure. When you feel rested, challenges seem easier, solutions become clearer, and moments become experiences.
Most importantly, enjoy being in the moment. A lot of time at the end of the year is spent either looking back reflectively or looking ahead with anticipation – planning your next move – when the best times are with those you care about, in the moment.
Enjoy your break. You deserve it.
About the Author
Erin Louw is also a Xena Mentor and is learning everything about growing an online community. To grab a coffee or connect over work, kids and owning your journey, book a session with her via the Xena app (download on Apple Appstore or Google Play).
