How to Set a Better Pace & Avoid Collapsing
As the world spins ahead, most of us spin right along with it. And that can mean being out there seven days a week, six working and one to party! Whatever your current schedule is, you might watch for the signs of collapse.
When there is always more to do, and it seems like you have less time, it is easy to push the brain and the body beyond their limits. I always know this is happening when I start rounding things off, thinking a lot about other places I would rather be, or drumming up orders for pizza or cheesecake. Just like running a fever, this means I am running too fast and my body and brain are starting to yell help!
So how do you get a handle on things before you fall apart?
Backing up and backing off is a good start
When you find a good stopping point, just opt out for a little while. Just steer yourself out the door and go for a bike ride, run or walk. Or check out a new bookstore. Do something to get your brain and body out of the regular loop for a bit. Decompressing allows times for refueling and can deliver some amazing results.
Rethinking your home and job work schedules, and trying to spread things out a little can help
Sometimes there are hidden times that go unused or other projects that can be postponed that could take the pressure off a little, letting you regroup. Do a once over of your schedule and see how you can distribute the load better.
Do a spot check of sleep, exercise and good food
If you are running on 4 hours, skipping most of your regular runs and picking up donuts every morning, you could start sleeping at least 7 hours, getting out to run at least a couple times a week, and duck all of those donuts in favor of energy loaded fruit and yogurt smoothies.
Take a few deep breaths and let the tension go
For some of us this works as 15 minutes of early quiet time before work. For others it can be some deep breathing and relaxing stretches during afternoon break. For others browsing a flea market, taking a Tai Chi class, or finding time to go for a great sail, can help dump those stress loads that just seem to keep building.
Watch yourself for the signs when you know you are beginning to waiver. Do something then to give your body and brain a much needed break. When you come back it really will be better.
Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of Gareth Williams