One of the things I have been talking about a lot lately is how important it is to be kind to yourself right now. Even before the pandemic hit it was often hard enough to take a break but now with the never-ending ZOOM meetings, conference calls, home schooling and countless other things that have been going on through these unprecedented times, now more than ever, it is important to give yourself a break.

I have been encouraging my coaching clients, family and friends to follow these seven tips to help them to be kind to themselves and give themselves permission to take care of themselves first and foremost.

It’s Okay to Say “NO” – nowhere is it written that we are required to take on every request that is asked of us in life. As I constantly say, “contrary to popular belief, the word no is actually a complete sentence”. It is truly better to say no to someone than to take on just one more thing and do nothing but stew about it under your breath. Prioritize what is important to you and know that you’re allowed to say no to what does not feed your joy.

Recharge Your Batteries – question for you, do you let your cell phone run out of juice or do you plug it in and recharge it? We all know what the answer to that one is: you plug it in. Then why is it alright for us not to recharge our own batteries so that we are firing on all cylinders? If you do not take care of yourself first, where do you think you will find the energy to care for everyone else? Our hearts and minds need rest to function at full capacity so give yourself time to let them do so.

Change Your Focus – if you find yourself doing the same thing over and over again but you cannot seem to concentrate or get the work done, change your focus. Go for a walk, take the rest of the day off and come back to it tomorrow or do something to break the downward spiral you inevitably end up in when you are not able to focus. Otherwise, it simply leaves you exhausted at the end of the day and feeling like you have not accomplished anything which I think is a lousy way to wrap things up.

Be Positive – I know this is sometimes easier said than done but don’t let negativity get you down. When you wake up in the morning simply be grateful for the fact that you woke up on the right side of the dirt and get to live, laugh and love another day. Be thankful for the little things in your life for there are countless examples right in front of you to be grateful for. You need not look too far.

Believe in Yourself – you need to be your number one cheerleader; you cannot look to someone else to do it for you. Sure, we all appreciate support and encouragement but it needs to come from within us first and then we can rally others to join our passion, cause, crusade, or whatever we might be on. Start with yourself.

If You Need Help – just ask for it. There is no shame in knowing you need help in whatever aspect of your life it may be. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it is a true sign of strength. Remember there are so many of us out there who are just waiting to help.

Last of All Be Kind to Others – I heard a great quote from a gentleman who was on one of my ZOOM webinars at the start of COVID-19. He said, “Givers get” and in these unprecedented times his statement is profound. I have derived immense joy from reaching out to support others and the new relationships and opportunities that have come into my life through this pandemic have been tenfold. Please remember the elderly for many of them are alone and worried, help your neighbors, your community and especially the local business owners that need our support now more than ever. “Kindness matters and it only takes a moment.”

May you and yours stay safe, healthy and sane. From our home to yours please enjoy the rest of your summer, take a well-deserved break and have some fun, whatever that may look like in your world. Cheers Jane

Please feel free to add any tips you might have or road trip suggestions in the comments section below. Thanks!