THE POWER OF THREE (1)

Paper suitcases

Life can be appear to be very complex so when we talk about work/life balance, it can seem nigh impossible and even the mention of it can seem totally overwhelming.  Many women complain about being too tired or having too much to do, whether they are single, partnered or married, with or without kids.  The demands that 21st century life places on the average adult female is enormous and this can leave women feeling inadequate, trying too hard to live up to unrealistic expectations and often ending up with low self-esteem, as a consequence. 

So, how do you deal with the increasing amount number of roles that you, as a woman, are expected to fill?

One suggestion is that you divide your life into three - work, family life and you.  This keeps it very simple, but you will find that all of your life fits neatly into these three categories.

You

You are a unique individual and you need to accept this.  Don't be tempted to be someone you are not, or try to imitate anyone else.  You were created to be special and there is no-one else on this earth who exactly like you.  

You are also an individual who is spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical and intellectual.  You have likes and dislikes, prejudices and preferences.  Some of your habits surprise other people and you, like all of us, have skeletons in your life - some hardly noticeable and others that fall out every time you open an emotional draw or cupboard.  

You are quirky, have a sense of humour or not.  You smile when you're sad and cry when you're happy. There is no-one on earth who understands you, like you do, so be kind to yourself.  

At the beginning of the year it is normal that you are thinking about self-development.  This might mean exercising more, learning how to say 'no' and mean it, or taking up a new hobby.

You are an important.  You are valuable.  You are you. 

So, here are a few ideas to help you to start caring for you:

1) Develop a sense of spirituality in everything that you do.

2) Make appointments with yourself to do the things you love and diarise these.  

3) Have regular health checks - doctors are not the enemy and unless you are a doctor, you are NOT a doctor.  Stop self-diagnosing.  

4) Learn to think - switch off all technology and think through a problem without distractions.

5) Look your best at all times, even at home alone.  No walking around the house constantly in pyjamas with your hair uncombed. 

6) Be positive.  Life isn't always going to go your way. Accept it.

7) Remember you were created for a purpose, live to fulfil that purpose. And, if you don't know what that purpose is, begin a journey of self-discovery.

TIP OF THE DAY

Buy yourself a set of Paper Suitcases and the largest suitcase is to be filled with items that reflect who you are or who you aspire to be.   This might include a journal, creative thoughts, positive quotes or the name of your hairdresser, photographs, etc. This is the box of you. If you need inspiration, you should find something in your box to affirm that you are special, valuable and unique. 

Happy Homemaking!