Life gets pretty heavy sometimes, and with everything we have been through and will continue to go through because of the pandemic, it’s especially important to stop, smell the roses (or what’s cooking on the grill), and just smile, laugh, dance or anything else that makes your heart happy. Let’s permit ourselves to be ok, or to be ok not being ok.
Speaking of which, it’s totally OK…
To say “no.”
There is so much beauty and power in such a short, small word. Some have mastered the art of saying “no,” whether it’s regarding others asking of their time, energy, finances, or whatever else. For those who struggle with this, remember you don’t have to do everything for everyone, all the time or any time. If something is not the right fit for you, be your own advocate and politely decline. This does not make you selfish; it makes you smarter about protecting your mental health. Do what’s best for YOU!
To put your pajamas on at 5 p.m. (even if it’s not winter)
Hey, because comfort, right? And ladies, feel free to take that bra off early, too. That’s self-care at its finest!
To unfollow people on social media
You have a right to make your newsfeed more uplifting or less stressful. Out with the bad, in with the good. Positive vibes only in your space, even virtually!
To not answer your phone
Whether it’s a social phone call, text, video call, or whatever, you don’t have to answer or respond right away. Work matters are different, yes, but it’s ok to protect your time and space and respond when it’s convenient for you for social outlets.
To plan your next vacation (even while on vacation!)
Take your vacation days! They are so critically important for recharging your mental and physical health battery. Companies can replace employees at the drop of a hat, so don’t burn yourself out and skip out on well-deserved vacation time to keep pouring and pouring into your job. I’m all about possessing a strong work ethic, but you are human, and you will eventually burn out, so prioritize your rest and maintain a good work/life balance.
To be annoyed
Whether it’s about masks, vaccinations, politics, telemarketers, crazy drivers on the roads, co-workers that incessantly ramble, neighbors who don’t pick up after their dog, whatever it may be, you are justified to have your thoughts and opinions. Just remember it’s how we respond to challenging situations that does stand out. Be kind, always, even if you are annoyed! How we say what we say matters.
To cheer yourself on
Be your own cheerleader; how you talk to yourself absolutely makes a difference. Go look at yourself in the mirror and think “WOW! I look really goooooood today!” And then believe it. Stop the negative self-talk because that does nothing to help you in any area of your life.
To speed walk past vendors
Whether it’s at the mall, gym, shopping center, or wherever, it’s not wrong to want to protect your time and space. Yes, the vendors/businesses need to make a living, which is respectable, but those interested in their products will seek them out, so it’s all good!
To do nothing
I’ve said this before, but it is totally worth repeating: Doing nothing is something. We live in an extremely hectic, fast-paced, volume-driven, to-do, list-oriented, and multi-tasking type of world. Sometimes slowing things down and forcing yourself to be unproductive can be the best medicine for your mind, body, and soul (besides laughter…that’s the ultimate medicine)!
To see the sun poke out and instantly think that everything is going to be ok
Because it will be ok; sunshine just helps reinforce that notion. Whatever stress or obstacles you may be encountering now will not last forever. Life ebbs and flows, so remember, this, too, shall pass.
, and just smile, laugh, dance or anything else that makes your heart happy. Let’s permit ourselves to be ok.){kind=link}