Are YOU on the List This Year?

Last year, I got a little better at putting myself on "the list". As a busy entrepreneur, mom, wife, volunteer, [insert additional titles here!] it seems like I'm always last on my own list, if I make the list at all. Are you like that?

Whenever all of my responsibilities get to be too much, suddenly I realize that I haven't been taking care of ME. I've let myself drop down the list or fall off of it, in order to take care of everyone else. If you are a mom or an entrepreneur, you especially understand what I'm saying.

Last year I did improve, and I noticed a remarkable difference. I crafted time on my calendar (yes,  I made appointments with myself!) to workout, meditate, and meet with friends. Albeit it was not frequent enough to change my life, but whenever I followed through, I found myself more balanced, more focused, more...well...HAPPY. (Who doesn't want a happy mama?!)

This year I'm committed to being on my list. If you're also committed, here are three suggestions based upon what I learned about myself:

1. Schedule time on your calendar that is set in stone. Only a life emergency should deter you from YOUR time. Everyone else can wait.
2. Start small. I started with 20 minute meditations daily during my lunch hour. I also scheduled walks and workouts for 3 mornings per week. If I did more, then GREAT. But 3 was my minimum. Pick an amount of time that you know you can utilize, because if you are too ambitious, you'll likely fall off the list again.
3. You don't have to explain yourself to anyone. The kids, the spouse, the family pet - no one! This is YOU time. There is no need to tell anyone why you're doing it, what you're doing, and especially don't apologize!!! Trust me - you being balanced and happy will impact everyone in your life.

Exercise and meditation may not be the way you wish to spend your time. I just used these activities as an example because it works for me. There are dozens of ways you may find your balance that aren't my thing and vice versa.

The bottom line is that we owe it to ourselves and those around us to take great care of ourselves. When we are in an emotional or physical deficit because we are doing too many things for too many people, we can't be on our game. So do yourself a favor and put yourself on your list in 2016!

I want to hear your challenges, ideas, and overall thoughts - feel free to comment or send me a message.

Happy 2016 to all of you.