It’s only once every four years – but there is an extra day in February this year. What are you going to do with it? Perhaps you decide to work from home – or give some time to yourself?
That’s one thing that Mums are notoriously bad at- giving time to themselves. Do you feel guilty if you take time out for yourself? Do you feel that tidying the cupboards, doing the laundry or the weekly shop is more of a priority? But unless you look after yourself, how will you have the emotional or physical energy for your job, your children or your partner? If you expend all your energy looking after others, you could end up neglecting yourself.
Ideally you should give yourself some “you time” daily- whether it’s a long lie in the bath, reading a book for an hour, or even just chatting to a friend on the phone. So if on 29th February you can put some time aside for yourself, what might you do? Think big- and small! What would you like to do? Take yourself off for a day somewhere? Book yourself a massage or a manicure? Arrange lunch with a friend? Go for a walk or play a sport? Whatever turns you on!
The important thing about “you time” is that is has to be planned – it’s no good hoping it’s going to happen spontaneously- you’ve got to organise it! So start now- commit yourself to doing something that you will enjoy – and think how refreshed you will feel afterwards. That might mean sorting out childcare, but you can do that!
And don’t just stop after 29th February – why not out aside a “you day” each month – or even just half a day – and give yourself some TLC?
Glynis Kozma
Aspire Coaching
