Here is Your Permission Slip!
Throughout this post I’m opening up about a very personal journey I’ve been on recently. Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect it, and over the past few months, I’ve experienced some pretty significant ones. From feeling the crushing weight of burnout to surviving a near-death experience, I’ve been forced to rethink many aspects of my life.
During this time, I took an unexpected six-week hiatus from the show. It wasn’t planned, but it turned out to be absolutely necessary. This break, and the events that led up to it, have taught me invaluable lessons about self-care, the importance of slowing down, and the power of gratitude. In sharing my story, I hope to offer you practical insights and encouragement to prioritize your own well-being.
This article isn't just a recount of what happened to me; it’s a guide to help you recognize burnout, understand the importance of taking breaks, and find balance in your own life. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, constantly on the go, or simply in need of a reminder to take care of yourself, I hope my experiences can inspire and assist you.
Read to the end for a free gift - How to Take Effective Breaks for Mental & Emotional Wellbeing!
The Importance of Taking a Break
The idea of taking a break can often feel like a luxury we can’t afford. Everything seems to need our immediate attention. However, it’s crucial for both our mental and physical well-being. Constantly pushing ourselves without pauses leads to burnout, decreased productivity, and ultimately, health issues.
My recent journey made this abundantly clear. After months of juggling professional responsibilities and personal commitments, I found myself on the brink of exhaustion. The tipping point came during a much-needed vacation in Florida. Despite the beautiful surroundings and cherished time with family, the underlying stress never truly disappeared.
When I returned home, I plunged straight back into my annual consignment event, Mother Time Marketplace, without missing a beat. It was an event I’ve been passionate about for 18 years, yet this time, something felt different. I was physically present but mentally and emotionally drained. This relentless pace was unsustainable.
Then came the unexpected. On April 1st, a near-fatal car accident forced me to confront the reality of my situation. It was a wake-up call that my body and mind needed rest and recovery, not just for a few days, but a significant pause to truly heal.
Here are some practical tips for planning and taking effective breaks to recharge:
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Schedule Regular Downtime: Make downtime a non-negotiable part of your routine. This can be daily, weekly, or monthly, but it should be consistent.
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Unplug from Work: When you’re on a break, truly disconnect from work. Turn off email notifications, avoid work-related calls, and focus on activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
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Engage in Restorative Activities: Find activities that help you relax and recharge. This could be reading, walking in nature, practicing yoga, or spending quality time with loved ones.
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Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to signs of exhaustion or stress. Your body often gives you clues when it needs a break. Don’t ignore these signals.
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Set Boundaries: Communicate your need for breaks to colleagues, family, and friends. Let them know your availability and when you need uninterrupted time for yourself.
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Plan Vacations: Regular vacations, even if they’re short, can significantly reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Plan ahead to ensure you take these breaks.
Taking a break isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a necessity for maintaining your health and productivity. Reflecting on my own experience, I realize that pushing through exhaustion only led to more significant setbacks. Embracing the importance of breaks has been a transformative step towards a healthier, more balanced life.
The Impact of Near-Death Experiences
Life has a way of forcing us to pause and reevaluate our priorities, and nothing does that more profoundly than a near-death experience. These moments strip away the trivial concerns of everyday life and bring into sharp focus what truly matters. My own recent encounter with death was a stark reminder of this truth.
On April 1st, while driving to work, I experienced a terrifying car accident that could have easily been fatal. As I approached a stop sign on a quiet country road, another driver, distracted and rushing to the hospital, ran the stop sign. In that split second, I knew I was about to T-bone him. Instinctively, I swerved off the road, narrowly missing two telephone poles. My car was damaged, but miraculously, I was alive.
In the immediate aftermath, I was in shock. The reality of what had just happened took days to sink in. As I replayed the event in my mind, I began to realize how close I had come to not being here today. The police officer on the scene remarked that my survival was nothing short of a miracle. I knew then that something significant had to change in my life.
Here’s what such a life-threatening event can teach us:
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Perspective on Priorities: When faced with the possibility of death, it becomes clear what is most important in life. For me, it was the love I have for my family and the purpose I find in my work. Reflect on what matters most to you and ensure these priorities are at the forefront of your life.
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Gratitude for Life: Surviving such an ordeal instills a deep sense of gratitude for the simple act of being alive. Each day is a gift, and recognizing this can shift your mindset from one of stress to one of appreciation.
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The Urgency of Self-Care: Our bodies and minds need care and attention. My accident highlighted the consequences of neglecting self-care. Regularly check in with yourself and make self-care a priority, whether through rest, healthy habits, or emotional support.
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Reevaluating Goals: Near-death experiences can make us question whether we are living in alignment with our true desires and goals. Take this opportunity to reassess your goals and ensure they reflect your authentic self and aspirations.
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Living Without Regrets: In those moments when I thought my life might end, I was grateful that I had no major regrets. I had loved fully and pursued my passions. Strive to live in a way that, if tomorrow were your last day, you would feel content with how you have lived.
Reflecting on these lessons has been transformative for me. I urge you not to wait for a life-threatening event to reexamine your life. Take time now to appreciate what you have, prioritize your health and well-being, and live in a way that aligns with your true values and goals.
Embracing Imperfection and Vulnerability
After my car accident and the subsequent health scares, I realized that I could no longer maintain the facade of always having everything under control. I felt exhausted and overwhelmed, but admitting this to myself and others was a significant step toward healing. Here’s why embracing imperfection and vulnerability is so important and how you can incorporate these principles into your life:
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Authenticity Breeds Connection: When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we show our true selves to others. This authenticity fosters deeper, more meaningful connections because people can relate to our struggles and imperfections. By sharing my story openly, I found that many women reached out to say they felt the same way, creating a supportive community.
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Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Constantly striving for perfection is exhausting and unsustainable. Accepting that it’s okay to make mistakes and to have off days can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. It’s liberating to acknowledge that you don’t have to be perfect to be worthy or successful.
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Fosters Growth and Resilience: Embracing imperfection allows us to see challenges and failures as opportunities for growth. Each setback becomes a learning experience rather than a source of shame. This mindset fosters resilience, helping us to bounce back stronger from adversity.
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Enhances Creativity and Innovation: When we let go of the fear of making mistakes, we open ourselves up to creative possibilities. Innovation often comes from taking risks and trying new things without the pressure of being perfect. Embracing vulnerability can lead to breakthroughs in both personal and professional endeavors.
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Encourages Self-Compassion: Being kind and compassionate towards ourselves is crucial for our well-being. Recognize that everyone has flaws and that it’s okay to be imperfect. Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the same understanding and kindness that you would offer a friend.
Tips for Embracing Imperfection and Vulnerability:
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Share Your Story: Start by sharing your experiences and feelings with trusted friends or family members. You’ll likely find that they appreciate your honesty and relate to your struggles.
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Practice Self-Compassion: When you make a mistake or face a setback, speak to yourself with kindness and understanding. Remind yourself that imperfection is a natural part of being human.
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Set Realistic Goals: Avoid setting unattainable standards for yourself. Break down your goals into manageable steps and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
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Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: View failures as valuable lessons rather than sources of embarrassment. Reflect on what you can learn from each experience and how you can grow from it.
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Be Present: Focus on the present moment rather than worrying about past mistakes or future uncertainties. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help you stay grounded and centered.
By embracing imperfection and vulnerability, we allow ourselves to live more authentically and connect more deeply with others. These principles have been instrumental in my journey towards healing and self-discovery, and I encourage you to explore how they can enhance your life as well. Remember, it’s okay to be imperfect, and it’s okay to ask for help. We are all in this together, and by supporting one another, we can find strength and resilience in our shared humanity.
PS - Watch the full episode on Youtube HERE!
The Power of Slowing Down
In a society that glorifies busyness and constant productivity, slowing down can feel counterintuitive, even guilt-inducing. However, the benefits of reducing hustle and embracing a slower pace are profound. My journey through burnout and recovery has taught me that slowing down isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for maintaining health, happiness, and overall well-being.
After my accident, I realized that my relentless pace was unsustainable. The constant drive to achieve, succeed, and keep pushing forward had taken a toll on my physical and mental health. I needed to find a way to balance my ambitions with the need for rest and rejuvenation. Here’s why slowing down is so powerful and how you can incorporate it into your life:
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Enhances Mental Clarity and Focus: Slowing down allows your mind to rest and reset, improving clarity and focus. When you’re constantly rushing, it’s easy to feel scattered and overwhelmed. Taking breaks helps you return to tasks with a refreshed perspective and renewed energy.
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Improves Physical Health: Chronic stress and overwork can lead to a host of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and weakened immune function. By slowing down, you give your body the chance to heal and recuperate, reducing the risk of stress-related illnesses.
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Boosts Creativity and Innovation: When you’re not rushing from one task to the next, you have more time to think deeply and creatively. Some of the best ideas come when you’re relaxed and not under pressure. Allow yourself the space to daydream and explore new possibilities.
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Strengthens Relationships: Slowing down gives you more time to connect with the people you care about. Instead of hurried conversations and quick check-ins, you can engage in meaningful interactions and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
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Increases Overall Happiness: When you’re constantly busy, it’s easy to overlook the simple joys in life. Slowing down helps you savor these moments, increasing your overall sense of happiness and fulfillment.
Strategies for Embracing a Slower Pace:
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Prioritize Rest and Relaxation: Schedule regular downtime in your day. Whether it’s a few minutes of deep breathing, a leisurely walk, or a quiet cup of tea, make time for activities that help you unwind.
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Simplify Your Schedule: Take a close look at your commitments and identify areas where you can cut back. Focus on what truly matters and let go of tasks that drain your energy without providing significant benefits.
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Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, yoga, or simply being present in the moment, can help you slow down and appreciate the here and now. These practices also help reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.
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Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to requests and demands that don’t align with your priorities or well-being. Setting boundaries helps protect your time and energy, allowing you to focus on what’s most important.
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Embrace “Do Nothing” Moments: Allow yourself to have moments where you do absolutely nothing. These moments of stillness can be incredibly rejuvenating and provide a much-needed break from the constant hustle.
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Engage in Activities You Love: Spend time on hobbies and activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading, gardening, painting, or playing a musical instrument, make space for activities that nourish your soul.
Slowing down has been a transformative experience for me. It has not only improved my physical health but also enhanced my mental clarity, creativity, and overall happiness. By embracing a slower pace, you can create a more balanced, fulfilling life where you’re not just surviving, but truly thriving. Remember, life is not a race; it’s a journey. Take the time to enjoy it.
Finding Gratitude in Everyday Moments
In the midst of life’s chaos and challenges, finding gratitude can be a powerful tool for transforming your outlook and enhancing your overall well-being. My recent experiences have deepened my appreciation for the simple, everyday moments that I once took for granted. Cultivating gratitude has not only helped me cope with stress and uncertainty but has also brought a renewed sense of joy and contentment into my life.
After my near-death experience and the subsequent health issues, I began to realize the importance of appreciating each day as it comes. The accident made me acutely aware of how fragile life is and how easily we can lose sight of what truly matters in the pursuit of our goals. Here’s why practicing gratitude is so beneficial and how you can incorporate it into your daily routine:
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Shifts Focus to the Positive: Gratitude helps shift your focus from what’s lacking or going wrong to what’s abundant and going well in your life. This positive shift in perspective can improve your mood and overall outlook.
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Enhances Emotional Resilience: Regularly practicing gratitude can make you more resilient in the face of challenges. By recognizing and appreciating the good things, you build a buffer against stress and negativity.
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Improves Physical Health: Studies have shown that gratitude can lead to better sleep, lower blood pressure, and improved immune function. When you focus on positive aspects of your life, it can have a tangible effect on your physical health.
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Strengthens Relationships: Expressing gratitude towards others can strengthen your relationships. When you show appreciation for the people in your life, it fosters deeper connections and a greater sense of belonging.
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Increases Overall Happiness: Gratitude is strongly correlated with happiness. When you make a habit of acknowledging and appreciating the good in your life, you naturally cultivate a happier, more fulfilling existence.
Practices for Cultivating Gratitude:
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Daily Gratitude Journaling: Spend a few minutes each day writing down three things you’re grateful for. They can be big or small, but the key is to make this a consistent practice. Reflecting on these positive aspects regularly can significantly boost your mood.
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Gratitude Meditation: Set aside time each day to meditate on the things you’re grateful for. Focus on the feelings of thankfulness and let them fill your mind and heart. This can be a powerful way to start or end your day.
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Express Gratitude to Others: Take the time to thank the people in your life who have made a difference. Whether through a handwritten note, a heartfelt conversation, or a simple text message, expressing your appreciation can strengthen your relationships and spread positivity.
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Mindful Appreciation: Throughout your day, take moments to mindfully appreciate the beauty around you. This could be the warmth of the sun, the sound of birds chirping, or the taste of your favorite meal. By being present and mindful, you can deepen your sense of gratitude.
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Gratitude Rituals: Create rituals that incorporate gratitude into your daily life. For example, you might start each meal by silently giving thanks for the food, or end each day by sharing something you’re grateful for with a loved one.
Finding gratitude in everyday moments has been a transformative practice for me. It has helped me navigate through difficult times with a more positive mindset and has brought a deeper sense of peace and fulfillment into my life. By intentionally cultivating gratitude, you too can experience these profound benefits. Remember, gratitude is a practice, and like any practice, it gets easier and more natural the more you do it. Start small, be consistent, and watch as your perspective—and your life—begins to shift in beautiful ways.
Giving Yourself Permission to Pause
Giving yourself permission to pause is not just an act of self-care; it’s a crucial step toward maintaining your overall well-being and sanity. During my recent journey through burnout and recovery, I learned the profound importance of taking intentional breaks and granting myself the grace to do so.
After my accident, I struggled with the overwhelming feeling that I had to keep everything together. My responsibilities, my business, and my life seemed to depend on my constant action and presence. This belief left me in a state of perpetual stress, unable to fully process my emotions or care for my health. It wasn’t until I had a conversation with a trusted friend and colleague that I realized I needed to give myself a permission slip to pause. Here’s why this is so essential and how you can grant yourself the same grace:
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Reduces Stress and Prevents Burnout: Constantly pushing yourself without breaks leads to chronic stress and eventually burnout. Taking regular pauses allows your mind and body to recover, reducing overall stress levels and preventing burnout.
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Enhances Productivity and Creativity: Contrary to popular belief, taking breaks can actually enhance your productivity and creativity. When you step away from your work, you give your brain time to rest and rejuvenate, often leading to fresh insights and ideas when you return.
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Improves Mental and Physical Health: Continuous work without breaks can take a serious toll on your mental and physical health. Pausing gives your body time to heal and your mind time to decompress, improving overall health and well-being.
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Encourages Emotional Processing: Taking a break provides the space needed to process emotions and experiences. This emotional processing is crucial for maintaining mental health and emotional balance.
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Fosters a Healthier Work-Life Balance: Giving yourself permission to pause helps create a healthier balance between work and personal life. It ensures that you have time for rest, relaxation, and the activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Steps to Create and Honor Your Own Permission Slip:
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Acknowledge the Need for a Break: The first step is recognizing when you need a pause. Pay attention to signs of stress, fatigue, and overwhelm. Listen to your body and mind, acknowledging when it’s time to step back.
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Define What a Break Looks Like for You: Breaks can take many forms, from short daily pauses to longer periods of rest. Define what kind of break you need—whether it’s a few minutes of deep breathing, a day off, or a longer hiatus.
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Set Clear Boundaries: Communicate your need for a break to those around you. Set clear boundaries to protect your time and space for rest. Let colleagues, family, and friends know when you’ll be unavailable and stick to those boundaries.
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Create a Permission Slip: Writing a physical permission slip can be a powerful act of self-validation. Write down your intention to take a break, sign it, and keep it somewhere visible as a reminder that you have granted yourself this necessary time.
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Engage in Restorative Activities: Use your break time to engage in activities that restore and rejuvenate you. This could be anything from reading a book, taking a walk, practicing yoga, or simply sitting in silence.
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Reflect and Adjust: After taking a break, reflect on how it felt and its impact on your well-being. Adjust your approach as needed, ensuring that regular pauses become a sustainable part of your routine.
Giving yourself permission to pause has been a transformative practice in my life. It has allowed me to step back, process my experiences, and return to my work and personal life with renewed energy and clarity. By granting yourself this permission, you too can find greater balance, health, and happiness. Remember, it’s okay to take a step back and rest. You deserve it, and your well-being depends on it.
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