Recently, I had a few unusual days at work when I felt off. I have a pleasant job; I get to help people everyday. On one of these days, this feeling was so strong I had to go outside for a walk to decompress. Once removed from the setting, I was able to see what was actually happening on deeper levels.
Several months ago, I realized that I needed a raise to be able to handle the insane rents that currently exist in the area. Fortunately, the raise got approved and began this week. What this means is that I will now work 5 days a week, instead of 4, my hours will increase and so will my responsibilities at the job.
Ironically, my professional work happens to be expanding, at the same time. I am writing a book about my ancestors, facilitating Peace Circles locally and will be traveling to do some of them. I will also start Women’s Circles in a few months. There are not enough hours in the day to accomplish what needs to be done!
Back to my story. After my unusual days at work, I had an opportunity to be alone, which helped me to see things more clearly. I watched my mind do a beautiful thing. It gave me permission to think freely, without any restrictions. I spent a fair amount of time exploring numerous options; it was a delicious experience. What I decided to do is to take time off from work, because there are too many things I am never able to get to. Over the course of many decades, whenever I’ve worked 5 days a week, my life always gets thrown out of balance. So, I made these 3 decisions to make sure that doesn’t happen, again.
~I will take time off in September when I go to Saratoga Springs to offer a Peace Circle as part of their International Peace Week.
~I will take a whole week off, when I move, so that I can rest and enjoy my new home.
~And, most importantly, I will take a Writer’s Retreat Weekend every three months. When I made this decision, I honored my writer soul and deepened my commitment to my books.
Making these decisions has made a world of difference in my mind, my energy level and my attitude. I feel lighter, calmer, happier and much more centered because I’ve honored the truth in my soul and did what I needed to do, to take care of myself.
This is a large and important part of staying healthy.