What do the first letters of the words above spell? Yes, you knew it—B.U.S.Y.! There is busy and then there is B.U.S.Y. Feeling B.U.S.Y. is feeling like you’re on the bottom, underneath the pile of to-dos weighing you down, stressed—thinking about what isn’t going to get done and then. . .the really yucky feelings creep into the pit of your stomach. Need I go on? I caught myself in that trap this morning after starting a new two-day-a-week work opportunity (which I’m grateful and very appreciative of having).
I really thought this morning my inspired priorities were in order. But, when I started to think of the top one on my list (a new task list added to the already long list–finding my Social Security card, which I needed so I could send a copy to my new contracting company so I could get paid) I felt the yucky feelings start to creep in. I wasn’t able to locate it when I looked before a late dinner last night, on top of knowing all I had to accomplish today after being out of my office. Being the de-stress queen I knew I had a choice. I could keep feeling like I was propelled out of a cannon ball and get aggravated OR de-stress myself.
The Power of De-Stressing
I make the choice I know works the best for me: de-stress and connect. I focused on breathing. . .I breathed deeply in and out of my nose for a least 30 seconds. Then the pit in my stomach released. (I reminded myself how my brain, and yours, gets locked up when we are stressed and clear thinking gets put to the side.) I also remembered how when I’m able to flow more freely without worrying how the most important things on my inspired list seem to get done. Although quite frankly, I’m not always sure how they gets done. In fact sometimes it truly amazes me.
Once I reached the driveway it occurred to me to look through our files again. Sure enough, there was a second folder with important papers in it that I had missed the previous evening. Viola! There was my Social Security card.
What do you do?
I’m really interested in what your favorite de-stressor is. How do you keep yourself grounded with all you have to do? They can be serious, fun or just practical. Blog and tell us what your favorite (healthy) de-stressor is. It’s great to share so everyone benefits! We will choose the top 3 most unique or best de-stressing tips and send you a gift. So please put your email in your blog response so we can contact you by email if you are a winner.
Bonnie,
This is a great reminder of the fact that we often have to stop, for a few moments to avert the tidal wave of to dos! I love your recommendation, and feel strongly that it is not easy, but it can be done if I practice the steps you suggested.
Thank you for offering a simple approach to one of the biggest challenges we face on a daily basis.
Since visiting your Serenity Pathways site, I’ve been encouraged to know that my Sudoku addiction is a legitimate relaxation outlet. I love to take some time to complete a puzzle, and especially before I need to switch from linear thinking into creative mode.
Thanks for giving me permission to play games. 🙂
xoxo
AA