If you follow me on Instagram you know I shared earlier that as a 9-5er and side hustler, I sometimes struggle between the “do it anyway” (just do what you have to do approach), and making myself a priority. If you’re a creative, entrepreneur or side hustler, I’m sure that you can relate to that.
On the one hand… we’re so committed to our dreams and projects. Right now I’m working on creating a nonprofit for first generation students and I’m an it works ambassador on the side. I am of the belief that I shouldn’t work my 9-5 without doing at least one thing for one of my businesses as well. So this idea means that I’m doing something everyday on top of my responsibilities as an academic advisor, friend, sister, daughter, girlfriend, etc. Sometimes we don’t realize that who we are as a person comes with roles and responsibilities and then we pile on our careers and dreams and just when we think we found the balance, we get overwhelmed. We don’t want to stop though because we know in the end it will pay off.
On the other hand… we hear the narrative that we are supposed to put ourselves first. If you’re a busy body or have lots of responsibilities, like me, you can wonder, WHERE? Where would that fit Christian? What would that look like? I get it, it’s hard. But we have to make ourselves a priority. Sometimes that means saying no to one of those responsibilities on your plate. You can’t show up for other people if you can’t show up for yourself. I’m preaching to myself because Lord knows I wanted to call out of work today but I said, “but my students….they need me.” Last week I went to a training and the speaker said, “We allow ourselves to get caught up in obligation to others. The truth is if you take time for yourself, they will find another person. Another person to help them run that errand, another person to solve their problem. That to do list will be there tomorrow if you need a self care day.” I’ve found that balance prevents burnout. Even though I know this, I still get it wrong and go too long without a break sometimes. But that will start changing today for me.
I need to do a better job of knowing when to take a break, take a day off and saying no. I don’t like to say no because I always want to be supportive, I want people to feel like I’m there for them. How will I continue to show up for them if I’m not taking out time to refresh myself or do what I need? So, here’s my advice: take a break. choose yourself. say no to those events and errands you’re too tired to do. call out of work when you don’t feel good. take a vacation day just because. YOU DESERVE IT.
Stay Gracious,
Christian
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