So, I’m doing this thing…wanna come (Take a Break)

Hi Friend, 

These last two weeks have been hectic. Between getting two massive projects out the door at work last week, and prepping for an all company onsite this week in Denver, I’ve been at capacity. The old me would have fretted (much more) about the fact that I didn’t get a newsletter out last week (you may or may not have noticed). The new me decided to be a little gentler on myself. 

I’ve been working with a health coach about the topic of self-compassion. I want to make big changes in my health. To do that, I know that I need to make big changes in my life, in my day to day, and, most importantly, in my own mind. 

During a text conversation a couple of weeks ago, he said to me “You have a lot of great goals and you know what you want and you know how to do it. What is it going to take for you to succeed?” 

“Consistency,” I texted back, immediately. “I tend to either over do it or do nothing at all. I want to practice consistency.” 

His response: “Where is the line for you between being consistent and being self-compassionate?” 

The question brought tears to my eyes. I had never considered compassion for myself as a key element of my own journey to a better version of myself. Big goals, tight schedules, vision boards (or Pinterest ones), daily affirmations, and daily actions - yes. Compassion for myself? This was a new concept. And, I knew he had struck a chord for me because it brought on an emotional response. One that, after a very intense couple of years of coaching, therapy and self-discovery, I have learned to listen to. He noticed, too, and assigned me some homework: explore the balance between consistency and self-compassion for yourself.

So, here I am. Ten days since my last newsletter, recognizing that I have had other priorities, other needs these last two weeks. Acknowledging that consistency does not mean perfection, merely showing up again and again, even if it’s a few days later. It does not mean beating myself up and claiming that I ought to just give up because I don’t have what it takes. It means being gentle with myself about my lateness, my limits, my personal needs, and the fact that resting is, in fact, important, too. It means allowing myself to be both late and yet, still here. 

Taking a break, giving ourselves time, creating space, acknowledging when we are depleted, reminding ourselves that “not now” doesn’t mean not ever again. That consistency is still consistency, even if it’s not every single time. I’m still showing up for myself, I’m still showing up here. It’s just not a regularly scheduled program right now. And that’s okay. 

So, take a break with me. Give yourself some time. Give yourself some self compassion. We are human beings. And we do a lot, and sometimes, we need a minute. 

If you have one of those free minutes (no pressure, ever), join us to discuss the next three chapters of On Our Best Behavior by Elise Loehnen. I promise, we’ll be anything but. Looking forward to seeing all of your beautiful faces. If you need the invite, click here to fill out the form, and I’ll send you the invite. 

Lots of Love,

Christine