As an obliger*, I need to take care of everyone else’s needs before I take care of my own. External responsibilities keep me on schedule. It’s changing, but fighting a life long pattern of people-pleasing isn’t a walk in the park. I have my lists. Use my daily mantra. And add in some yoga stretches. Yet, each day I have to dispel the sinister squeak in my head slowing me down. It insists there is somewhere I have to be. Someone who needs me to pick them up. Somebody’s homework that requires my assistance. Since purging the thoughts became challenging, I decided to replace them with a routine and appreciate some rituals:

1.) While sipping my morning cup of coffee, I think about how grateful I am for my family and friends. If I have a bit of energy, I jot them down. If I’m tired, I don’t write a thing and I know I’m sending good and grateful vibes into the world.

2.) I write. From 9:30am to 11:30. I work on my current piece, or I work on some queries, or I write a good tweet. Just need to get some words out in the world.

3.) I cook and then eat some delish homemade food.

4.) One hour of news. I choose Nicole Wallace. Sometimes I cheat and watch PBS. Sometimes I dose off and nap. It’s okay.

5.) Mocktail or Cocktail Hour with a bit of chit chat

7.) Walk, or yoga with Adrienne

8.) Humor, dancing and fun. I keep it light. Watch a good rom com or comedy.

*The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Ruben

~March 26, 2020