Ever felt as though you were an octopus? Clinging to the rocks while managing multiple tasks with your eight arms, and being thrashed by the waves of hormone changes?
It’s a familiar story when I talk with friends these days….children growing up and transitioning to independence, relationships changing, parents getting older and needing more support. As women in midlife we are also often in roles of responsibility in our careers.
The New Zealand Ministry for Women reports that “Women undertake a disproportionate share of caring and family responsibilities such as looking after children, older people, and those with disabilities, often while managing their paid work commitments.”
At the same time we have expectations (maybe from family members, others at work, from social media or the community) about providing our own “self care”.
It’s easy to feel as though if we only do things differently, or better, then we can be happy and keep everyone else happy as well.
I’m starting to wonder if it might be better to let go of some of the things go - peel one of the suckers off the rocks at a time. Ask a family member if they could empty the dishwasher while I peel the spuds for dinner. And sure, sometimes I find my measuring jug in with the saucepans later, but that’s still less work than emptying an entire dishwasher.
It sounds like such a small thing, but the cumulative benefits of practicing this over time are huge: more freedom, focus and lower stress.
So this week I have a question rather than a tip: What’s one thing you can take away from your life that would make it better? I’d love it if you’d share your “one thing” with me.
I’m just a click away here: [email protected]
I’d also really love to hear from you if there’s a topic (or two!) you’d like me to cover in future newsletters or my blog.
Stay happy and healthy!
Erika.
PS: And although I can’t manage your work and home commitments for you, if you are struggling to maintain your own health and would like support for this, you can find out more or book a consultation here: www.liferenomedic.com
