Last week I was out for dinner with my husband. (side note: I still can't believe we have to book a date night, but between raising our four year old, managing two busy careers and pretending we still have some semblance of career life, well, here we are.) we were talking about all of these things when I felt that telltale prickle in my eyes. Was this how I was going to spend the evening? Crying in one of my favourate restaurant? Apparently, yes.
It seems I have been feeling a little overwhelmed lately, and after the tears had abated ( and dessert had been ordered), we agreed about what needs to be done next: I need to start taking some time for myself.
It's a familiar refrain for many of us, and yet few of us seem able to do it. Since date night, though, I have started polling the woman I know for their tips and ideas. Our home editor, birginie, heads to the gym three times a week to releive tension and recharge her batteries. My friend Barbara is a finance exec who works in more than one city, so spending time at home has become her personal indulgence. Many of them talked about booking a good girl's night every once in a while, where the food, the wine and the conversation take them away from their everyday stress.
These me-time "dates" leave them feeling happier, healthier, saber and much less likely to burst into tears over their main courses. And since this wonderful circus that has become my life isn't about to let up any time soon, there is only one thing to do: follow their lead.
So this month I'm forforgoing the usual resolutions in favour of a simple one: I'm making a commitment to look after my own health nd sanity. To nyone who's feeling frazzled, I challenge you to do the same.
No matter what your goals, here's hoping we al get what we want from the new year.