A Season to Recover and Rediscover
Educators across the country look forward to the summer months. During this time they can unwind a bit and try to get some personal things done. So, why not look at the summer months a little differently. Look at this season for recovery, rediscovery and how to find time for yourself.
The last blog post talked about reflection, rebooting, and recharging during the summer months. Recovery and rediscovery are just another part of your process to become a healthier educator. As teachers or administrators, you know that time is a luxury. There is never enough of it! For example, you have probably made statements like these. “ I need more time in the day to do all that I need to do.” Or you have said, “I’m so busy that I don’t have time to breathe or go to the bathroom.” Then there is the statement, “ I wish that I had some time for me.” Before you know it, you are unhappy, overwhelmed and stressed by everyday life and work issues.
Do you need some free time?
Recovery and Rediscovery Take Time
So, part of the process of encouraging educators to focus on self-care and wellness is to promote personal reflection. Consequently, the personal reflection will lead to physical, mental and spiritual healing. Once some healing takes place, you can reboot your life in a new, healthier direction. Next, it is time for a full recovery of what’s left of you. Then, there is room for a rediscovery of self.
Remember, recovery and rediscovery take time. Therefore, the new and healthier you will not happen overnight. It takes some time to become unhealthy, so becoming healthy again takes time and having a plan. So, here are some tips to get you started on recovering, rediscovering and finding time for yourself.
Steps to Recovery and Rediscovery
First, do what you want to do. Step back for a minute. Maybe step back for a few more minutes. Think about what would really make you happy. Yes, you’re an adult with plenty of responsibilities. Perhaps you have children, a spouse, or aging parents. But where do you fit in this equation? When do you matter? Moreover, how does all of the responsibilities make you feel? You’ve lost sight of yourself. You can’t be everything to everyone. Learn to say, “NO!” It’s time to do you!
Step back for a minute to reflect.
Second, limit distractions in your life. Yes, you have responsibilities, but there are always distractions that take up your time, too. For example, how often are you reading emails, sending text messages or checking your social media accounts? As an experiment, make a note each time you check emails or social media. You will be amazed how the minutes add up. Set aside a specific time in the day to respond to emails or indulge in social media. Also, look at your daily schedule for tasks that you can delegate to others. Hand it over! Just tell the person, it’s a part of your recovery and rediscovery. Move the distractions out of your way.
Third, set goals for yourself. Write a wishlist of things you would like to do. Then prioritize the list. What is most important to you? Furthermore, what will make you happiest? Create a schedule of free time. Then, stick to the schedule! Fill your free time with a hobby, movie, exercise, etc. Most of all, don’t let others hijack your free time. It’s your road to recovery and rediscovery. Remember, it’s time to do you! Spend time with yourself.
On the path to recovery and rediscovery
Lastly, learn to rest. Your mind and body cannot be on ten all of the time. Eventually, a part of you will break down. Then the recovery and rediscovery time will take longer. If you step back for a moment to assess your life, you’ll discover things you didn’t know. Make that list of things you want to do or accomplish in your life. Accomplish your goals by giving up distractions and delegating what you can. Schedule your free time and have fun. Learn to say no to people who usurp your time. Afterward, you will be on your way to a full recovery and rediscovery of yourself.