Changing a habit–even what I thought was a good one, was far from my mind years ago when I had my Epic Meltdown. This is what I call my big crash when I became too overwhelmed in my role as a parent and caregiver.
The meltdown was so bad I had to call my husband Lamar home from work. I just lost it–couldn’t stop crying or focus.
It wasn’t a big thing that happened at home with my girls. It was all the little things that had been adding up and taking over my life.
We’ve all heard a version of the airline spiel given at the beginning of every flight, “In the unlikely event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, oxygen masks will drop down from the panel above your head… Secure your mask before helping others.” That same advice should apply to caregivers and parents.
After my Epic Meltdown, the airline warning kept playing in my mind. I was taking care of others–my family. Then, I squeezed in taking care of myself when I could here and there.
I was a recipe for disaster. It had to stop and did. After a solid year of working through all the brokenness, and finding my center again, I’ve vowed to keep my life simple and to take care of myself.
Think 66
This month in honor of self-improvement month, I’ll write about easy things that will help you be your own self-help guru. Changing a habit takes real work.
Recent research shows that on average it takes 66 days to shift your gears to new behavior. Given that, trying to commit to 5 things at once is too much, so think about taking on one thing and see how you do 66 days from there.
This week, it’s the thing we know we should take more seriously–that should take precedence, but often takes last place–our health. I am a night owl who has a weakness for hot wings.
I wish I could stay up all night and eat hot wings. Best combination ever! But sleep refuels me and the hot wings, well…you know.
Knowing should equal doing
We all know the right things we should be doing to take care of our bodies and well-being. When was the last time you put off a critical appointment for your son, daughter, or an aging parent? Probably never.
If I asked if you’ve put off an annual appointment for yourself that might be more likely. I want to be around as long as possible for my daughters.
I’ve realized that I increase the likelihood of that when I am eating right, exercising, and making my medical care a priority too.
I don’t have a long list but a few must-dos. For example, missing a medical appointment is a no-no. I’ve made a list of every annual check-up I should have this year.
If the appointment isn’t already made, I have a reminder on my calendar to set it. It’s as simple as that.
Changing a habit that is breaking you down or wearing you out will make a difference in your well-being. The next time you think that you don’t have time for yourself, I hope you’ll think of my Epic Meltdown.
Now, I turn to you.
What health commitment do you need to make this month?
