In a world that never seems to slow down, where chaos is the norm, and schedules overflow with obligations, we often find ourselves caught in a whirlwind of expectations, responsibilities, and endless to-do lists. We need to recognize that in this perpetual hustle and bustle, it's essential to grant ourselves permission to step back, take a breath, and simplify our lives. It's time to say no to the overwhelming demands of life and embrace the truth that 'good enough' is more than enough.
I do not know about you, but I am currently in a season where I like I am juggling too many balls in the air. As women, there is this pressure to excel in our careers, maintain picture-perfect homes, be nurturing mothers, supportive friends, and active community members. The pressure to 'do it all' and 'have it all' can be (and has been) overwhelming.
It's easy to get caught up in the chaos, to fall into the trap of over-scheduling, and to continuously strive for an unattainable standard of perfection. But what if, in the midst of all this chaos, we gave ourselves permission to simplify, to find contentment in the ordinary, and to embrace the philosophy that 'good enough' is not just sufficient, but liberating?
It's time to tear up the rulebook (read:patriarchy) that insists we must be all things to all people, and instead, create our own set of rules that prioritize our well-being and happiness. It's time for permission slips – not the kind you needed in school but the ones that empower you to be your most authentic, imperfect, and beautifully flawed self.
The Permission We All Need:
1. Permission to Say No: In a culture that glorifies 'yes' and praises the overcommitted, give yourself the power to say no when your plate is already overflowing. It's okay to decline additional obligations and prioritize your well-being.
2. Permission to Prioritize Self-Care: You're not a superhero; you're human. Prioritize self-care without guilt. Take that long bath, read that book, or have that lazy Sunday. Your mental and physical health deserve it.
3. Permission to Embrace Imperfection: Perfection is an illusion. Allow yourself to make mistakes, have messy moments, and embrace the beauty of imperfection. Life's quirks are what make it interesting. At the very least, they make for good stories. Personally, I have so many from the last week…
4. Permission to Ask for Help: You don't have to do it all on your own. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Reach out to your support system when you need it; they'll be there for you.
5. Permission to Disconnect: Step away from your screens and the relentless stream of notifications. It's okay to disconnect, even if just for a little while, and savor the present moment without digital distractions. Something I have been consistently doing for the last 3 weeks is putting my phone down and away from 5-7pm. It is life changing. I am more focused, more attentive, more calm and I am a better mom and partner. Our phones really are the problem but more on that later.
6. Permission to Rest Without Guilt: Rest is not a luxury; it's a necessity. Give yourself permission to rest when you're tired without feeling guilty. Recharging is essential for your productivity and well-being.
7. Permission to Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries in your personal and professional life. Boundaries protect your time and energy, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.
8. Permission to Celebrate Small Wins: You don't need grand achievements to celebrate. Celebrate the small wins, like getting out of bed on a tough day or completing a mundane task. Every step forward counts.
9. Permission to Let Go: It's okay to let go of people, things, or commitments that no longer serve you. Create space for what truly matters by releasing what doesn't. I have said “I do not have capacity to say yes right now” more this past week than ever in my life. Do you know what? The world did not crumble, the sky did not fall, and I felt immediate relief.
10. Permission to Be Playful: Life can be tough, so why not add a bit of playfulness to the mix? Don't take everything too seriously. Laugh at yourself, find humour in the chaos, and remember that imperfection is part of the journey.
In a world that constantly demands more of us, these permission slips are reminders that simplicity, self-care, and self-compassion are not only valid but essential. It's time to stop chasing an elusive ideal of perfection and start embracing the beautiful messiness of being human. So, take a deep breath, grant yourself these permissions, and remember that in a chaotic world, simplicity and self-acceptance are your greatest allies. Make rest your superpower.
~Lisa
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