I am also planning my first mini-vacay in years
This is a thought-provoking question for me. I feel like I haven't done any real relaxing in about 5 years. So, I decided to make one day per week an "empty" day, where I can focus solely on myself (not chores, not projects, not a to-do list, no appointments) If I want to just sit on my couch and stare at a wall, so be it. However, I feel like I will read or nap, sit outside on the deck, maybe go thrifting, do whatever. If I get behind in my house plans, then that will have to be OK. But the reality is, I already do too much, and I have for years. I have always filled my days up with productivity, like I somehow had to justify being at home while Mark was at work. Never mind that I also had a job and was a full-time mom of four. My needs were always last, and free time was never free. I am sure that's what's behind all the stress I feel at home now. I am filling my days with motion and it's a hard habit to break. Maybe I am tiring myself out on purpose. I am being productive - but at what cost to me? Figuring out life now with a completely empty nest has been a challenge. Time to pencil in some empty time.
Great realization to take a day to relax. During our working and family years so many of us get on the always busy treadmill and it is hard to change that habit. I mostly read, sometimes take walks without the dog, spend too much time on the computer. I need some hobbies that fit me at this point in my life!
ReplyDeleteAfter a while, you forget what it was you were jazzed about before...but its kind of fun to rediscover some, and even find new ones!
DeleteSounds like a good idea. I just had a similar discussion with a friend.
ReplyDeleteDue to my health issues, I have learned much earlier that I don't have to be "productive" all the time - " " because what even is being productive exactly?
I read, I research for my blog posts - much more than what actually ends up in them - I bead if my thumb plays along, watch movies.
I hope you'll find what is right for you.
I'm getting there. Part of the journey is learning you don't have to be productive every waking moment of your day!
DeleteEnjoy your time off.
ReplyDeleteI do like doing whatever I want, when I want without being accountable to anyone including myself.
Right not, I'm fully enjoying my hexie project, because it has me dreaming of my new great grand daughter.
I think you have the right idea!
DeleteOoh, this resonates with me. I think because my husband is so productive (and I've worked full time with the kids - now adults, I suppose) & there has just been so much going on that sitting feels lazy. In general, I enjoy planning future trips/finances, reading, sitting in the sun, going for a walk or a hike with a friend,catching up for a glass of wine/meal with a friend... I do not enjoy cleaning, but I do enjoy organizing & optimizing our living spaces/decluttering.
ReplyDeleteI've been giving myself permission to be lazy, but it does feel wrong somehow!
DeleteSounds like a great idea taking a day a week as a mini holiday.
ReplyDeleteIts working well, so far. As long as I place no demands on myself, it works as a great mental health break.
DeleteI hope you learn to take and appreciate your empty time. You deserve it!
ReplyDeleteBelieve it or not, I have to pencil it in every. single. week. Old habits die hard.
DeleteAround here it's read, sew, craft, repeat. Oh, and cook. :)
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a much more enjoyable list than my own!
DeleteI think that's a great idea! I'm always moving, too. For better or worse, my days have always been jam packed. My parents were like that...work hard, play hard, but that rarely left time to just be. I'm getting better at relaxing as I get older, but it's still not easy for me to just sit.
ReplyDeleteYears of "momming" has me still on that invisible hamster wheel. I need to make more of an effort to just enjoy the down time.
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