My February absolutely rushed by, and looking back at my year’s goals—especially my content goals—I’ve faltered hugely in keeping to a beneficial schedule. But, as I often remind myself, the key is to get back on the bicycle and keep riding. Today, I’m opening up about a genuine slice of my life: the journey of returning to myself, my goals, and my desires, without being steamrolled by everyone else’s demands.
I freely admit that I struggle with maintaining boundaries for my own needs. When it comes to my child, I’m a fortress, but beyond that, I often find myself making allowances in my schedule to accommodate others’ requests. This past week was another reminder of the toll this takes—my body ached from my decisions, my brain felt fried, and I found myself lamenting, “I cannot keep doing this.” This cycle of long nights, little sleep, and an abundance of blue light is wearing me thin.
In an effort to pivot, I’ve begun listening to “Good Energy” by Dr. Casey Means, a recommendation from a friend. And it strikes the same familiar chord: we know what we need to do. I know what I need to do. I understand, intellectually, that sleep is crucial for my health—yet, why is it always the first thing to slip? I’m diligent about brushing my teeth, I drink filtered water constantly, I eat my veggies and limit meat consumption… but why can’t I prioritize sleep?
As March arrives with the promise of spring, a renewed sense of hope fills the air—an optimism that this time, I can ride better. So, let’s devise a plan, and importantly, let’s keep it simple. Here are three commitments for Mindful March:
Set Defined Work Hours: Establish and adhere to specific working hours to avoid the blur between personal and professional time. This boundary will help me reserve evenings for rest and rejuvenation.
Prioritize Sleep: Commit to a consistent bedtime routine that invites quality sleep. This means screens off at least an hour before bed, a calming ritual like reading or meditating, and setting a non-negotiable lights-out time.
Daily Self-Reflection: Spend 15 minutes each day journaling or in quiet reflection to reconnect with my inner self and assess if my daily actions align with my broader life goals.
This March, the focus is on simplicity and self-compassion as I strive to navigate better through my days. It’s about recognizing that while the rush of life is inevitable, taking moments to pause, breathe, and realign with what truly matters is essential. Join me in making this month a time of coming back to ourselves.