Slowing Down is Okay
Goodness knows that things aren't easy right now. Whether you are working through overwhelm, stress at work or home, feeling the enormity of the virus which is still hovering around us or feeling disconnected from yourself or others, it can all feel like a lot...because it is! And trying to move forward in our life and/or business amidst all these heavy things, can feel extra hard.
So what if we slowed down, maybe even stopped for a moment and just took a breath? As much as society tells us to keep moving forward and pushing through, what if I told you that it’s okay to step away for a bit…if that feels good to you.
It can be so easy to push ourselves to the limits, simply to keep up with what everyone else is doing. But if there is one thing that this last year has taught us, it’s that slowing down, reflection, and self-care is so important for living a healthy, wholesome life. And though physical hugs might be limited these days, the benefit of connecting still remains invaluable. We need each other, we need encouragement and a listening ear and the comfort of knowing that we are not alone.
So if you are in a place where slowing down and having time to reflect feels good for you, then do it. If moving forward in your life or business needs to happen at a slow and steady pace, then so be it. If taking time to develop ideas, to come back to a hobby, to sit and read a book or simply take an afternoon nap is what you need...that is okay.
I’ve had to take all this to heart, in particular in my business the last 6 months as my work momentum was lost due to our move. I felt guilty for stepping back and even now, I feel the pressure to push forward and build things back up as quickly as possible. And though I’m so excited to get back to some of the ideas and work that has been brewing in my head, I also need to be reminded that I can go at my own pace.
Through all this, it has helped me to put together some simple ‘words of wisdom’ for my business this year and I thought I’d share them with you.
Words of Wisdom:
Slow is Okay and Less is More
I can get very antsy to tinker in new projects, but staying the course and taking time to refocus when needed, is ultimately what helps my business move forward in a comfortable way.
Talk it out and ask for support regularly
This is probably the most powerful thing I’ve done for my life and business. Having someone to brainstorm with and work through ideas/overwhelm/goals is so incredibly helpful. And often, with just a simple conversation, I come away feeling more clear and connected with myself and by business.
Take a break often. Breathe, make a cup of tea, sit in the quiet
Finding increments of peace (and joy) always helps me come back refreshed and focused.
Maintain a daily rhythm that feels good
Having a flow throughout the day allows me to form healthy habits and rituals that spur myself into a more creative, calm, connecting mindset.
Photo Credit: Wes Hicks