It is the time of year that many are getting their homes ready for cold weather, in an effort to stay warmer and save money on heating bills. Our homes aren’t the only thing that needs energy conservation. So do our bodies and ourselves.
Last year the world slowed down, whether we wanted to or not. While there were a lot of that situation that were horrid, there was also the realization that without all the external activities, there was time and energy. Learning a craft, cooking, virtual visits, playing in a park. Suddenly there was time to do the things we had waited for someday to do. Then things started up again. Spurts and sputters, then go. Now it seems that we are going 100 miles an hour again. People are reluctant to complain about this because, well, last year was so bad. That doesn’t mean the old feelings of exhaustion and over commitment aren’t coming back as well.
Taking time to pick things up slowly is a good way to not end up back at burn out. And there is a handy reason. “We’re being careful how many groups we are around because, you know.” If you are bolder in your truth, “We found we enjoyed not being so active, so we aren’t going back to all the things we did before.”
Some things will be easier to leave behind than others. When you don’t miss them, you’ll know you did the right thing.
Taking stock of how much you are spending of your energy, and where you can save on it, is as worthy as insulating the attic, covering the windows, and putting an extra blanket on the bed. Saying no, choosing to do new things, letting someone else take the lead of a group; are examples of conserving energy. Make a list of what drains your energy. Some clearly have to stay, like your job. Some clearly can go, like chairing a board. Looking it all over gives you a clear picture of where you are wasting energy, so you can spend the saved energy on enjoying the people you love.
Personal Energy Conservation is a bright idea!
