If I’m being honest, transitions are sometimes challenging for me. I like routine, and transitions can be disruptive. Going from “summer mode” to “back to school mode” is no different.
I love the predictability that the fall brings, (along with a quiet house when I’m working from home 😉) BUT when I think about the month ahead — fall sports, lots of work travel and numerous “to-dos” — my brain sometimes goes into a tailspin.
I often feel stuck in stress and overwhelm during these hectic transition times. And before I know it, I have fallen into old habits of putting myself last. I have found that when I can pause and return to my tried-and-true strategies to dial down the “busy” and carve out time for myself - to exercise, feed my body properly, and rest - I feel better both physically and mentally.
Here are some strategies I use to carve out “me” time - when it feels like there is no time!
Try a couple this September as you transition back to school and into fall.
1. Be aware of time sucks
When I’m overwhelmed with a mile long to-do list, the first thing I do is get honest about how I’m spending my time.
My brain loves to procrastinate by scrolling social media, building online shopping carts, complaining, and other counter-productive activities. It’s a real eye opener when I see the “screen time” summary on my phone. 😳
Be aware of how you’re spending your time and identify the “time sucks”. It starts with being mindful about your time.
2. Get clear on your priorities
As frustrating as it sometimes seems, it is impossible to make everything a priority. Be honest with yourself and brainstorm your specific priorities.
For example, many moms say family is their priority. Yes, same here. But what specifically about your family is your priority? Will you prioritize watching your kids at their sports practices, or will you arrange carpools to free yourself up some nights?
When it comes to your health, what will you prioritize? Planning a couple "healthy” meals ahead of time so you’re not scrambling after work and/or filling up on snacks while you decide what’s for dinner? Taking a walk break during the day to get in some movement and clear your head? Get specific and plan for it.
Is keeping your house “spotless” one of your priorities or will you lower your expectations to save time for activities that matter more to you?
After you brainstorm, keep your list front and center when deciding how to spend your time.
3. Be intentional
I spend A LOT of time sitting in my car…sometimes almost two hours if I’m on carpool duty for my daughter’s soccer practice.
When my “me time” gets the squeeze, I get more intentional with that time.
Sometimes I rest and read a book. Sometimes I socialize with other parents on the sidelines, while watching practices. Other times, I pay bills to free myself up for an earlier bedtime. My favorite activity is to go for walk with other moms. It’s a great way to connect, whether in person or by phone. The connection feeds my soul, and the movement and fresh air help me sleep better. Whichever I chose, it is with intention and grace.
How can you be more intentional with your time?
4. Make decisions faster
Sometimes I get caught up in indecision for far too long, because I’m waiting to make the right decision or for the right time. I remind myself that there are many “right” decisions and there will never be a perfect time. A ‘made’ decision is the right one.
For example, my daughter’s soccer schedule can be logistically challenging, especially for out-of-state games and tourneys.
My brain sometimes wastes time in confusion — when should we leave, where should we stay, what flight should we take? So many decisions!
Instead of sitting in indecision, I create a personal deadline, make a plan and remind myself that I can always change my mind later.
5. Adjust, don’t abandon, your plan when “life” happens
We often fall into the “all or nothing” trap, going all-in on our routine and then, when “life” happens, putting our needs on the back burner.
It’s about consistency, not perfection. Adjust, don’t abandon your plans, and shift your mindset from “all or nothing” to “all or something”.
Here’s an example: If you planned to exercise during your lunch break but your meeting ran long, and your workout window went from 45 minutes to 15 minutes, you still have time for a quick walk, some strength training, or core work instead of saying “screw it”. Keep the promise to yourself.
{Want more tips on how to nail a consistent exercise routine? Click here}
Putting it all together…
You CAN carve out the time you need for yourself by being aware of your time sucks, getting clear on priorities, being intentional with your time, making faster decisions, and adjusting plans when “life” happens.
These are just some of the strategies that have helped me take back control and feel better both physically and mentally - especially during times of transition. I hope they do the same for you! Remember, meet yourself where you’re at and take it one step at a time. You got this!
Want more tips, tricks and strategies to dial down the “busy” and carve out time for YOU? Grab
. If you want this back-to-school transition to be different, and not lose yourself in the chaos, try a different way. Get one-on-one coaching support that will change how you spend your time forever. Experience the power of coaching by scheduling a call today.Let me help you make time for yourself, in between taking care of everyone else, so you can take your health back and FEEL BETTER.
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