Attention | Low Battery

I find myself in a familiar situation AGAIN —engrossed in my work,  typing away with my usual intensity, an alert appearing multiple times on my screen: 

‘Battery Low - Plug into Power……' 

I ignored it, until my computer inevitably shut down. Only then did I reluctantly stir to connect the charger, reboot, and salvage my work and regain momentum.

It could've been avoided had I simply paid attention to the warning initially. But no..

This triggered a reflective journey for me. This minor disruption mirrors a larger tendency in my life—to neglect my own 'battery levels' much like ignoring those warnings for my computer.

I had another clear 'Battery Low, plug in' just before Christmas. My daughter had a bad cold, she was ill enough to stay in bed for two whole days—I felt extremely envious, I found myself imagining the luxury of being unwell—not too sick—but enough to warrant bedrest, just for a few days.

I know the warning signs and advice on self-care bombards me daily, but like the computer charger, it is within reach but for some reason I don't tend to plug in until I'm dying!

Why? 

Because lasting change rarely stems from tools or external motivation. It begins with mindset.

Dig deep into my mindset about self care and you will find words and phrases like ‘indulgent’ ‘inconvenient’ ‘a lot of effort’ ‘ not important’ ‘selfish’ ‘time consuming’ ‘not a priority’.  

Tackling these is vital for any sustainable change.

Shifting these beliefs will eventually alter my attitude and hence, my ability to act. Acknowledging the value of prioritizing my well-being will lead to a proactive approach to self-care.

Resetting core beliefs demands time, deliberate effort, and consistent repetition. 

Thoughts will always want to gravitate towards familiar paths, much like autopilot directing toward a former workplace. 

Feelings may not initially embrace new ways of thinking. Embracing current feelings will never facilitate the reconstruction of core beliefs. Over time, however, they will catch up. 

Change comes through consistent repetition of new thoughts and beliefs. 

For me, it's time for action - here are declarations I’m embedding into my life to unlock motivation and action:

• Prioritizing my well-being has indispensable value for my physical, mental, and emotional health

• Self-care is an essential part of my routine, non-negotiable and possible even amidst my responsibilities

• The efforts I invest in my own wellbeing today are crucial investments in my present and future self

• Caring for my needs is an act of self-respect, it shapes my reality and guides my decisions

• Embracing healthy beliefs isn't just for me, it extends to positively influence and impact those around me

Let’s learn to prioritise your own equilibrium before hitting a critical 'battery low' point. Tend to well-being proactively, rather than waiting for circumstances to force you to recharge. 

Enjoy the journey!