The Importance of Taking Some Time Off in a Day

I used to worship busy…

As soon as I was done with a client, without even checking in to see if I needed to eat, go to the bathroom, or take a breath. I picked up my phone - What emails did I miss? Who texted me? Was there a missed call? Before I knew it, I was texting 3 people, answering an email, running to my car with my coat half on rushing to get home with no regard for what my mind, body, or soul really needed. 

When there was a still moment I filled it with a podcast, a Ted talk, or a phone call. Essentially, I was a production machine.

The sad thing is, I thought this was somehow “better than” slowing down, breathing, and being alone with my thoughts. I also thought I was getting so much done and somehow some way that made me more valuable.

I remember taking a yoga class, which was a rare hour that I didn’t have my phone on, the instructor encouraged us all to not turn our phones back on and just be with the empty space on the way home. At that time, this made my skin crawl. I’m not sure I was even able to make it the full 13 minutes without turning that sucker on and that was a turning point…

As many of you know I then turned to meditation, which led to some journaling, and then my spiritual awakening. Now, either on the way to my office or on the way home, I stop and look at the lake. I take some time in nature, even for just 5 minutes to remind myself to slow down and flow.

This made me aware of how I feel in the moment building a good foundation for me to focus on what I really need to do on that day. Learning to know what I should prioritize and keeping myself from ignoring what my needs are also helped me to really become productive.

I encourage you to turn your phone over today on your ride home. Take some time for yourself and learn where you can find comfort and relax. You deserve this!

If you are really struggling to create a connection with your thoughts, I invite you to schedule a call with me to see if we can help you have a better way to check in with your body, and see what your soul needs from you.

I promise you won’t regret it.

Have a great week ahead!

Melanie