Bethany: Hi. I’m Bethany. I’m lowering the bar.
It’s my new mantra. Let’s hold hands, take deep breaths, and recite after me:
“I, [insert name here], am going to not push myself to the point of exhaustion. I, [insert name here], am going to let others help me. I, [insert name here], am going to let the chips fall where they may AND stay focused on the long term goals.”
Really, it’s been a rough few weeks here. If it wasn’t a sickness thing, it was work. And if wasn’t work it was a family thing. Or an errand to run. Or a work call to take. Seriously–does it ever end?
The short answer is no. Life will keep throwing stuff over the fence at you all the time. It’s up to you whether to take it as it comes and go with the flow. Or the alternative. Which is stressing out and causing everyone around you to feel the pressure.
Naturally, I’m a perfectionist. I’m a Type-A (just like Miranda). I want to do it all. Hell, I try to do it all. But these past few weeks, the plain truth is in front of me. It. Is. Impossible. Honestly. Take a look at yourself. All that you want to do. And that all that you can really get done? Does it match? If you’re like me, you ask too much of yourself.
So this week–and hopefully more long term–I’m trying to be more honest with myself. Take inventory. Look around. And see what is realistic. And more HEALTHY in expectations. Can I not write this week? Bummer. But guess what? I got to spend quality time with my family and friends without the guilt.
And I’d like to think a little less that the bar is lowering. It’s more about putting the bar at the level where it should be, and balancing on it the “right” way. Anyone else care to join me?
Studio Mothers: Life & Art 