Aspire Magazine: Inspiration for a Woman's Soul.(TM) Oct/Nov2019 Aspire Magazine | Page 59
Each of us have our individual symptoms
and triggers for overwhelm. Your symptoms
can be:
Physical - nail biting, clumsiness, neck
or back ache
Psychological - forgetful, rude,
defensive, impatient
Social - misunderstandings, inadequate
boundaries
Spiritual - loss of sense of purpose,
unsure of what’s important
Triggers are also unique to each of us: a
deadline, a certain tone of voice, changes at
home or at work.
Noticing these signs and triggers is like
setting off the two-minute warning buzzer:
time for an intervention. This could look like
asking for the space you need. Consider the
following four strategies that can help you
avoid draining your brain and your energy
without coming across as ungrateful:
#1 - Turn Cancellations into
Positive Experiences
The fear of missing out is real, which is why
we’re inclined to say ‘yes’ to every invitation
or opportunity. But there can also be joy in
missing out, especially when you don’t have
to come up with weak excuses just to get out
of a play date or dinner party.
You don’t have to
live up to anyone’s
standards except
your own, and doing
otherwise would be
doing yourself an
injustice.
SIGNS THAT YOU
NEED A LITTLE
BREATHING ROOM
When you want to turn someone down, be
polite and thank the person for thinking of
you, then explain that you’re taking some
time to focus on yourself. You may even ask
to schedule another time in the future to let
them know you value their company.
#2 - Take a Family “Time-Out”
Most kids are no strangers to being sent to
time-out. Consider flipping the script and
telling them you’re putting yourself in time-
out (and watch them giggle about it). Tell
them you need a break and will be back
in “mommy mode” in ten minutes. Remind
them that we all need some alone time.
#3 - Honor Your Inner Introvert
Despite most people identifying as an
introvert, the world seems made for
extroverts. Society tends to cater to people
who are sociable, connected, and engaging.
But don’t let this bias stop you from
embracing your introverted qualities.
You don’t have to live up to anyone’s standards
except your own, and doing otherwise would
be doing yourself an injustice.
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