Time for yourself

Incoming e-mail, new Facebook message, new Tweet, cell phone ringing, new text message.... demands, system overload.  Sound familiar?

CafeIt is, as I have recently discovered, useful to set boundaries to create space in one's life.  Nurturing self is vitally important if I wish to give my best to those around me.  Like the aeroplane oxygen mask, I have to look after myself first...

Being mindful, in the current moment, and aware of myself and others around me can create space in one's life.

I have found that by simply tuning in to the 'now' of life, and just accepting that things are just as they should me, to be immensely beneficial in achieving more.  I can plan, set goals and yet all the while being hugely aware of focussing on life, as it unfolds.

 

Simplifying life is a mindful practice.

Clear the clutter....

  • I cleared through my clothes; anything that wasn't beautiful, useful or sentimental (or didn't fit well) was sent to a charity store.
  • I cleared and organised my kitchen cupboards.
  • I made my office paperwork more orderly and filed books away neatly.
  • I use an 'Archive 2010' folder for my email inbox & at the end of each day any read, and dealt with, emails go in the archive.  A clear inbox feels GOOD!
  • I pay bills the moment they come in.  I simply set up to pay four days before the due date.
  • I consciously smell the moment; maybe enjoying a cup of coffee or a walk but being fully PRESENT.  Aware.  Observing and enjoying those minutes for myself.

These are just a few ideas, no doubt you will have many more?

Tags: mindfulness, clutter, boundaries, work,

Comments

Friday, February 12, 2010Isabel R wrote:

"I've been consciously trying to follow your advice to look after 'me' and feel better for doing so :) <br/> Down-sizing and de-cluttering have been enforced by circumstance, but hugely beneficial. <br/> I use a filing system in my in-box where I only keep things there that still need to be dealt with.... and as a rule try to clear as much as possible by the end of every week so I can sit back and really enjoy the weekend! It doesn't always work, but it helps keep focus in the office environment. <br/> Thank you for more helpful suggestions Joanna, you're a star!"