Back to School woes?

August 10, 2024
Two girls sitting and talking about something

As August unfolds, many of us find our schedules becoming increasingly hectic. Whether it’s the back-to-school rush, end-of-summer activities, or ramping up for the final quarter of the year, this time can often feel overwhelming. Amidst the hustle and bustle, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care to maintain our mental and emotional well-being.

Why Self-Care is Non-Negotiable?

Self-care isn’t just a buzzword; it’s an essential practice for maintaining overall health. When we neglect self-care, we risk burnout, increased stress, and diminished productivity. Taking time for ourselves helps to recharge our batteries, enhances our resilience, and improves our capacity to care for others.

You know this does not happen without boundaries right? Boundaries protect our time, energy, and emotional well-being. But how do we do that?

First of all, Learn to Say No. It’s okay to decline invitations or requests that overextend you. Saying no is a powerful way to honor your limits and focus on what truly matters.

The next thing we have to do is put ourselves on the schedule. We put all of the other important things on the schedule, so why not our downtime? Block out time in your calendar for rest. Treat this time as non-negotiable, just like any other important appointment.

Next, let’s limit distractions. Reduce the time spent on social media or binging shows. Set specific times for these activities and stick to them.

The last thing for you to do is to communicate your needs. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and hurt feelings.

To assist you in communicating your needs, you must believe that you deserve it.

Take a moment right now to ask yourself, “Do I deserve to be healthy? Do I deserve to be happy?”  Let me help you…….Of course, you do! Make yourself a priority right now.

Let me give you somewhere to start…..your morning routine!

Start your day with a few minutes of mindfulness to set a calm tone.

This can be done by focusing on your senses while you do your everyday tasks. Setting your intentions and focusing on the sensations while you brush your teeth.

Doing some deep breathing and stretching when you first wake up, perhaps even walking outside and listening to the sounds around you while you take some breaths.

Remember, self-care is a continuous practice, not a one-time event. By prioritizing self-care and setting healthy boundaries, you can navigate the busy August schedule with grace and peace!

If you need some assistance with your self-care, check out this resource. The feelings in focus mastery course

I am here to support you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re looking for coping strategies, relaxation techniques, or simply a listening ear. Together, we can navigate through life’s challenges and emerge stronger than ever before.

Dr. Kimberly VanBuren
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Meet The Author

With a phD in pscyhology and over 17 years of working with clients, I’ve gained a deep understanding of why people struggle to achieve their goals and have developed a passion for teaching the skills needed to navigate life effectively. It’s not a lack of effort, potential, or desire that holds people back—it’s the complexity of life and the limiting beliefs we often get stuck in.

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