I just came back from a long business trip that took me to Barcelona, then Singapore, then Taipei. I was gone for 18 days. I love my work and I love travelling but this trip was especially tiring not only because of the length but also because of crossing so many time zones.
The days were long but satisfying but the accumulating fatigue was weighing on me a little. I also knew that three days after returning home, I would be hosting Easter dinner for 19 of my family.
It became clear that I had to prioritize a little self care so I could enjoy all the things I do love doing. That meant I had to say no to a couple of things; like one additional tourist stop on Sunday with friends. I knew I needed more sleep, so I chose to go home at 8:30 instead of 10:30 pm. And I had to pass on a group dinner with colleagues on Monday night so I could be ready to work all day Tuesday then get on a 14-hour flight home. I’m so glad I made those decisions, but they were not without a tinge of guilt and some FOMO. I’m never one to say no or decline an invitation so this guilt was new territory for me. And I survived it and no one seems to be holding it against me.
One decision I do not regret is choosing to wear my Uggs mules (which look decidedly like slippers, very elegant slippers, but slippers none the less) on the flight home. They are warm, super comfortable and easy to slip on and off. And guess what, no one seemed to notice I wasn’t wearing ‘proper’ shoes.
Try this ONE thing
We spend so much time sacrificing ourselves, wondering what the neighbours will say... Mostly, the neighbours aren’t even noticing. So go ahead, make that decision in favour of your own self care. Chances are no one will notice, or, if they do, they just might be inspired by your choice.
Considering coaching? I have no coaching approach. Transformation is the only objective. We work on the lies, the self-deception, and the fears in you about money, and about the power you perceive to be outside yourself in other people. We work on your difficulties in making decisions and your inability thus far to make bold choices in life and to follow through and trust yourself completely to do so.
The irony for some people is that the very thing that they want the coaching for (an indecisive, half-hearted life) is what’s keeping them from deciding whether to get coaching.
When you’re ready you’ll reach out @ karen.laidlaw.theONEthing@outlook.com. Meanwhile, enjoy the blog!