For many years, I struggled with creating a routine and staying consistent. I thought consistency meant showing up every single day, without fail. This mentality led to frustration and burnout, as life’s unpredictable challenges often threw me off course. It wasn’t until I shifted my perspective on consistency that things began to change. I realized that consistency doesn’t mean perfection; it means persistence and adaptability.
Life as a present mom, partner, sister, and friend can be incredibly time-consuming. Each role demands my best self, leaving little time to show up for myself. When life happens, it’s easy to neglect self-care. This was my reality until I discovered “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. This book transformed my life by teaching me the power of small, incremental changes. Instead of overwhelming myself with unrealistic expectations, I learned to build habits that became second nature.
“Atomic Habits” emphasizes the importance of making tiny adjustments that compound over time. Clear’s approach is based on the idea that habits are the compound interest of self-improvement. Just as money multiplies through compound interest, the effects of your habits multiply as you repeat them. This concept was eye-opening for me. I realized that I didn’t need to overhaul my life overnight. Instead, I could focus on making small, manageable changes every day.
One of the most transformative lessons from the book was understanding the four laws of behaviour change: make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, and make it satisfying. By applying these principles, I started to design my environment to support my desired habits. For example, I placed my workout clothes next to my bed to make it easier to exercise in the morning, either taking a fast pace walk or slow pace walk going to the gym or tending a workout session. I set up a reading nook with my favourite books to encourage me to read more often. These small tweaks had a profound impact on my daily life and routine.
As a busy individual and mom, showing up for myself can be challenging. However, “Atomic Habits” taught me to find moments of self-care in my daily life. Taking a walk, reading a book, going to the sauna, worshipping, praying, and preparing a delicious meal for myself and my family are all ways I show up for myself. These activities might seem simple, but they are essential for my well-being.
Creating a routine that accommodates my roles and responsibilities while prioritizing self-care has been transformative. I no longer feel guilty for taking time for myself because I know that by investing in my well-being, I can show up as my best self for my loved ones. It’s about finding a balance that works for me and recognizing that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity.
For those who struggle with consistency and finding time for self-care, I highly recommend “Atomic Habits.” This book offers practical strategies for building habits that stick, even in the face of life’s challenges. It encourages you to start small, be patient with yourself, and celebrate your progress. Remember, consistency is about persistence, not perfection. Every small step you take toward your goals counts.
“Atomic Habits” has been a game-changer for me. It shifted my mindset and empowered me to create a routine that supports my well-being. By making small, consistent changes, I’ve been able to show up for myself and my loved ones in meaningful ways. To all the busy individuals and moms out there, I encourage you to embrace the power of atomic habits and embark on your journey to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Tips for Showing Up for Yourself with a Busy Schedule
Prioritize Self-Care:
Schedule self-care like any other important appointment. Whether it’s a 15-minute meditation, a quick walk, or a skincare routine, carve out time for activities that rejuvenate you.
Set Boundaries:
Learn to say no. Protect your time and energy by setting boundaries with work, social commitments, and even family. This allows you to have dedicated time for yourself without feeling overwhelmed.
Break Tasks into Small Steps:
Use the principles from “Atomic Habits” by breaking your goals into small, manageable tasks. This makes it easier to integrate self-care into your daily routine without feeling like it’s an additional burden.
Utilize Downtime:
Find pockets of time throughout your day for quick self-care practices. Listen to a podcast while commuting, practice deep breathing exercises between meetings, or read a few pages of a book during lunch.
Delegate and Ask for Help:
Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks at work or home. Asking for help can free up time for you to focus on yourself.
Create a Morning Routine:
Start your day with a routine that includes something just for you. Whether it’s exercise, journaling, or enjoying a quiet cup of tea, a morning routine can set a positive tone for the day.
Practice Mindfulness:
Incorporate mindfulness into your daily activities. Pay attention to your breath, practice gratitude, or do a quick body scan to stay connected with yourself throughout the day.
Plan Ahead:
Meal prep, organize your week, and set realistic goals. Planning can reduce stress and ensure you have time for self-care activities.
Make Use of Weekends:
Use weekends to recharge and engage in longer self-care activities that you might not have time for during the week. Spend time outdoors, take a yoga class, or enjoy a hobby.
Celebrate Small Wins:
Acknowledge and celebrate your efforts to take care of yourself. This positive reinforcement encourages you to continue prioritizing self-care.
Why Taking Time for Yourself is Important:
For You:
Reduces Stress: Regular self-care practices can significantly reduce stress levels and prevent burnout.
Improves Mental Health: Taking time for yourself enhances mental clarity, reduces anxiety, and boosts your mood.
Increases Productivity: When you are well-rested and mentally healthy, you are more productive and efficient in your tasks.
For the People in Your Life:
Better Relationships: When you are at your best, you can give more to your relationships, offering patience, understanding, and love.
Sets a Positive Example: Prioritizing self-care sets a healthy example for your children, partner, and colleagues, encouraging them to do the same.
Enhanced Support: When you take care of yourself, you are better equipped to support and care for others.
By integrating these tips into your busy schedule, you can maintain a balanced life where self-care is a priority. Remember, taking time for yourself is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for your well-being and the well-being of those around you.