Two Beliefs to Let Go of Today

The topic of work-life balance comes up a lot when I’m working with groups and coaching busy women. You’ll find my thoughts on achieving that here.

I notice that those trying to achieve this so-called work-life balance, are often struggling with some of the same beliefs. 

Letting go of these two beliefs can be life-changing and can bring you closer to finding the joy and fulfillment for which you’re striving.

Here are two beliefs to let go of today:

1.That you have to take care of others before yourself – Mommas, daughters, caretakers, I’m looking at you!  I know you’ve heard this before.  And I know you’re already resisting what I’m about to say, thinking it’s just not possible. 

But I’m going to say it anyway because I know it’s true.  And, more importantly, I know it’s possible for you. 

Take care of YOU FIRST. 

This doesn’t have to be a grandiose thing.You don’t need a spa day every week (but go for it if you can and want to).  Instead, make it a point to do smallactions throughout your day. 

Little things, such as:

• breathing intentionally and stretching for 5minutes before opening your eyes
• getting a sitter, or trading childcare with afellow mom so you can go work out once a week
• eating one of your favorite meals or sweettreats just because you want to
• booking a date with yourself to watch a movieyou’ve been wanting to see
• brain dumping everything that’s on your mind andjournaling about things that are challenging you
• finding a support group or mastermind that includeswomen further ahead on their journeys and further back
• reading a devotion, quote or book for a fewminutes before bed

These are just a few ideas to give you some much deserved time for you.  You can do these things and more!

Say YES to your needs. Give yourself what you want. Don’t wait for others to give it to you.  Do what you need to do to find joy every day.

Because when you take care of you, you replenish your energy, clear your mind and are better able to be kind to others.

2. That things will give you happiness – I’ve asked thousands of people over the years what brings them joy.   And I have yet to receive a response that a “thing” is what brings them joy.  (I have heard “purchasing a home” but I consider that a life experience, not just a “thing.”) 

My point…

Stop shopping just to shop.  (And watch your savings grow.)

Don’t buy things just because they’re on clearance.

Just because you think something is cute or cool, that doesn't mean you need to OWN it.

When you do need to shop, focus onquality over quantity and focus on sustainable, reusable products.

Every THING is temporary.  Remember that.

Go have experiences instead. 

Travel.

Read.

Invite the neighbors over just because (just wipe your counters and clean the powder room and you’re golden).

Say yes to dinner out with thefriend who’s in town visiting.

Watch a play.

Walk the beach.

Hold hands. 

Embrace one of these 75 simple joys.

Just please stop buying thingsthinking they’ll provide you with joy and fulfillment.

The good news is anyone can let goof these beliefs. 

Anyone, including you.

You can shift your mindset andcreate space for joy and fulfillment. 

And you can start rightnow. 

What are you waiting for?  (And please don’t tell me “someday” because I have thoughts on that, too…)

Wishing you much simplicity andjoy,

Lisa