Elizabeth Kunc 10/6/24 Elizabeth Kunc 10/6/24

Self-care

I know what you’re thinking. At least I know what I was thinking when I first read this (see above). “What are you talking about? Do I even know any women who ‘fill their own cup’ first?”

the active process of making your body and mind a pleasant place to inhabit, by filling your own cup first. This ensures you have enough to give others.

I know what you’re thinking. At least I know what I was thinking when I first read this: “What are you talking about? Do I even know anyone who ‘fills their own cup’ first?”

Not very many of the people I know (especially women) make a practice of doing things we love. I’ve been hard pressed to find a role model in this department. All of us are so busy “taking care of business” (meaning, taking care of others), and we rarely include ourselves in that mix.

But a recent health crisis forced me to do exactly that: to take care of myself first. I had no other option. And so I find myself wondering: if I had taken a little more time to nuture myself along the path of life — would I be so freaking depleted right now?

Question: If you’re being honest (there’s no one here but you and me, and I promise I won’t tell anyone ;-) are you feeling angry, exhausted, or even a little resentful toward the people you love?

Food For Thought: When was the last time you “unplugged” from the needs of those around you to go do something (however small) for yourself?

Challenge: What if you asked for and took 30 minutes all to yourself today?

Elizabeth Kunc 8/18/24 Elizabeth Kunc 8/18/24

Align vs. Hustle

I know that “rest, recovery, and reflection” is not the party line in our culture. You know what I mean. We’re constantly encouraged to hustle, grind and take on as much as possible. It’s like we’re all running this impossible race towards some idea of success.

Align. Destroy the idea that you have to be constantly working or grinding in order to be successful. Embrace the concept that rest, recovery, and reflection are essential parts of the progress toward a successful and ultimately happy life.

What does it really mean to be “successful” anyway? Does it mean that if we do more, achieve more, and own more stuff we’ll magically be happy?

Life has forced me to slow down. From lockdown to a recent illness, I have had no choice but to sit down, slow down and reflect. And it hasn’t been easy AT ALL for me to downshift. But what I am finding is that the ability to reflect is actually a gift. When I stop moving, I am able to sit with and see what is actually there. And maybe, just maybe let it go.

Question: Are you in hustle mode?

Food For Thought: What if slowing your pace could bring you in alignment with the things you truly desire.

Challenge: I dare you to take 5 minutes to completely unplug (hit the “reset” button).