The Power of Listening to Your Body and Taking Mental Health Days
At Mind the Crown, we're all about embracing the concept of a "soft life" and prioritizing self-care. After all, we believe that taking care of yourself is the first step in taking care of your world. However, there are times when even the most ardent proponents of self-care need a gentle reminder to practice what they preach. I'm no exception to this, and I want to share my personal journey with you – one that underscores the importance of listening to your body and taking mental health days.
For those who know me, you're aware that I've been a fervent advocate for the soft life, a life filled with self-care, for a long time. But recently, I've found myself falling short of these principles, and the reason might sound all too familiar. I've been walking the tightrope of balancing a full-time job and running a startup business. It's a challenging endeavor, and many of you may relate to the hustle and bustle of this lifestyle.
In this race against the clock, I often find myself neglecting one of the most crucial aspects of self-care: sleep. The irony is that, despite preaching the soft life, I sometimes manage only a mere 20 hours of sleep over a whole week. This is where I've had my epiphany.
As I approach my 56th birthday in just a few days, I've come to realize that I can no longer keep pushing myself to the limit, whether I'm sick, tired, or overwhelmed. For years, I've been living by the motto that "the only way it's going to get done is by me." But I've had to challenge this belief for my own well-being.
I've learned that it's essential not only to ask for help but also to accept it in both my professional and personal life. I've recognized that my health, both mental and physical, is non-negotiable. Self-care isn't just about bubble baths and spa days; it's about nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. It's about knowing when to pause, take a step back, and prioritize your well-being.
So, I want to encourage each one of you to take a page out of my book and remember the importance of listening to your body. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, or unwell, it's not a sign of weakness to take a mental health day. In fact, it's a sign of strength and self-awareness. It's a declaration that you value yourself and your mental health.
It's never too late to start living the soft life, even if you've momentarily strayed from it. We all have moments of weakness, but it's how we bounce back and prioritize our self-care that truly matters.
As I embark on my journey towards a more balanced life, I'm reminded of the power of vulnerability and the strength in seeking support. By practicing self-care and listening to your body, you're not only nurturing yourself but also ensuring that you're in the best position to support those around you.
So, let's make a commitment together – to prioritize our well-being, take those mental health days when needed, and continue living the soft life we advocate for. After all, we can't pour from an empty cup, and it's time to refill it with love, self-care, and kindness.
With softness and self-love,
A. Willis
CEO/Founder - Mind the Crown LLC
