In my work with multi-passionate and over scheduled women, I frequently encounter individuals who are experiencing an overall disconnect from themselves. Meeting the constant demands of career, family and social commitments has left them feeling drained, imbalanced and alone. We are human BE-ings after all, not human DO-ings. Purpose gets lost when our sole focus becomes "doing" instead of "being."
I have developed a six step process to help women realign with their sense of purpose while nurturing themselves at a whole body level; even in times of stress and overload.
Center Yourself
Plan for 5-10 minutes each morning to simply be with yourself. Before you turn on your devices, walk the dog or feed your kids, take some time to mentally prepare yourself for the day ahead. This time can be used to meditate, journal, or visualize your optimal day -- make a commitment to whatever will help you welcome the day with a sense of peace and calm.
Fuel Your Body Right
Taking proper care of yourself on a physical level allows you to show up in the world more effectively and energetically. Commit to eating whole, unprocessed foods and make sure to pack plenty of healthy snacks to tide hunger over as it arises throughout the day. A consistent and enjoyable exercise routine will also increase vitality levels and program you for a more positive mindset throughout your day.
Get Organized
When you have a full schedule, it is imperative that you do as much planning ahead of time as possible to ensure a smooth day. Get acquainted with the "notes" section of your iPhone and throughout the day as needed, jot down ideas, lists and other important information that need to be documented to simplify your life. Meal and wardrobe preparation at the beginning of each week are also instrumental tools to put into action so that when you wake up each day, you can focus your energy on what is most important.
Sleep It Out
Often times we sacrifice sleep to take care of work and other responsibilities but performing at optimal levels in our daily lives requires us to fully recharge at night. Consider a routine that includes taking a warm shower, a lavender bath or turning off your phone for a half-hour to read a book (not on your iPad). Dimming the lights to indicate to your body that it's time to rest is also key to ensure that you are in a total state of relaxation. Use the tools that you find the most soothing on a nightly basis to induce mental and physical release and to create a space peace and tranquility.
Practice Your Passions
Fill your life with an abundance of things that you love. Surrounding yourself with things that you are passionate about will empower you, inspire you and keep you motivated. Find beauty everywhere. Listen to a song that moves you. Define your bliss, and put it into action! When you take the time to align with activities that bring you joy, you will operate at your best throughout the day and feel less overwhelmed and more energized.
Be Real About Your Situation
This final step is in my opinion one of the most important to keep in mind. In times of stress and overwhelm, we often over-exaggerate our situation by thinking about it incessantly and by talking about how much we have going on, to anyone who will listen. Dwelling in this "not enough time" lack mentality psyches us out and is often counter-intuitive. It blocks us from accomplishing and creating and makes a challenging situation, even more difficult to overcome. Beware of making the situation so difficult in your mind, that you can't work your way out. Instead, affirm that you have all the time and resources needed to accomplish everything on your plate and more.
By committing to one or all of these six strategies, it is my hope that you can can find moments of peace, balance and centeredness in the midst of overwhelm while moving through your life with more grace and flow.