put your oxygen mask on first
“Parents’ ability to foster resilience in our children hinges a great deal on our own emotional resilience.”
— Emily Popek, New York Times
You ask a lot of your mind and body. In return, they need a little TLC. Keep these simple guidelines in mind to make sure you’re giving yourself what you need to feel vibrant, calm, strong and healthy.
One of the best things that you can do for others is take care of yourself. Make space for the basics: Rest. Fuel. Move. Connect.
Carving out personal time can feel like a burden or even indulgence when we are barely keeping it together and one day bleeds into the next. But when you’re feeling most anxious or panicked it is much harder to be a loving leader, to stay level amidst the crisis, or monitor school assignments or chores they haven’t done. It is, in fact, the time for personal sustainability.
“We heal collectively and we need our leaders/caregivers to promote, support and resource well-being. When parents, caregivers, leaders, supervisors, coaches, and mentors optimize their own well-being, then our workforce and young people will benefit. Adult well-being is an act of altruism, both in families and organizations.”
-Dave Melnick
It’s a good opportunity to internalize what you always tell your kids: Get a good night’s sleep, get some sunshine, eat well, make time for friends, and always be a little kinder than necessary.
Cut yourself some slack. When you prioritize your needs, you’re filling the tank, emotionally and physically.
Forgive yourself for making mistakes
Accept that you won’t have all the answers
Make time for yourself
Remind yourself you’re doing your best
