It is that time of year for resolutions. What resolutions have you considered and did you ever meet any of those goals? As each year passes, it seems to be harder and harder to meet the goals that we set.
I recently read an article about setting up healthy goals. The writer talked about that it takes 21 days to set the pattern of a habit. I don’t know about you but that seems like a long time to me! Sometimes people seem to reach for the stars in their goal selection (just think buyer’s remorse here). I think it was be wiser and more successful for you to think smaller and to focus on yourself, not others.
As a special needs parent, I know that I often think of others before myself. Sacrifice! Sacrifice seems to be the buzz word by which I live. However, I really think, upon reflection, that is the exact opposite direction that my thoughts need to be leading. How can I take care of my special needs child if I can’t get out of bed because I have been putting everyone else’s needs before my own?
I need to be recharging myself at least once a week. Now my husband would define that as the hour that I go to get groceries. Is that recharging for me or something I do for myself? That would be a big fat NO! This activity needs to be for me and me alone. It can be anything that I enjoy – a long soaking bath, a visit to the local bookstore, a massage, a movie that I have wanted to see or a trip to Hawaii.
Does your family recognize your need to have me time? If they don’t, it is time for a serious discussion. I have gotten to that point where I need to the “discussion” with my family again. If there is a time that you need to stand up for yourself, this is it! If you can’t handle that discussion on your own, invite a family friend, your pastor or your local mental health counselor to give you a helping hand. You need this and you are worth this.
2ndchanceauthor 