The last few years I’ve gotten into the habit of taking the first week of summer off. 

For no other reason than to catch my breath after a whirlwind of a school year. Yes, I realize it’s the kids that actually go to class, but when school ends and summer starts, I need a few moments to collect myself.

When I’ve taken this week off in the past, I usually make the kids purge the piles of old homework and too-small summer clothes.  I sort, clean, and try to get ready for the juggling of work with the kids being off of school and competing for my time and energy.

But not this time. This time I didn’t do anything. Well, that’s not true. I watched a few movies during the day, read my overdue library books, and found a free night to go on a date with my hubby. I even mixed in a few workouts. And it was lovely.

So, why am I sharing this? Because I’m typically terrible at actually slowing down and enjoying some downtime. And when I don’t, it affects my relationship.

How do you ask?

Well, when I take time off and do nothing restorative or replenishing, I get sorta resentful. Even though it’s beyond ridiculous, I get annoyed when I don’t take well-planned time off to rest and I can get frustrated with those that I do life with. I know full well that it’s my choice to not slow down AND I’m still ridiculous enough that I take it out on others… good grief.

Which is why I’m so proud of myself for how I did it differently this time. I’ve learned from the past and am making it right this time around.

Yes, we are responsible for our choices and sadly there’s also a way we can take our poor decision-making out on others.

So my encouragement is to take the time.

Take the time to learn from your mistakes.
Take the time to slow down and rest.
Take the time to deeply invest in the relationships you hold most dear.

And most of all take the time to take care of yourself, so you can pour into others.

You got this,

-A

P.S. If you’re stretched thin or stressed out, speak up. I’m here to encourage you as you find your groove and reconnect with yourself (and your mate). Reach out and let me know how I can support the two of you.