Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV
So, what happened to her cape? Once upon a time, the Superwoman in you was ready to conquer the world. She thought she could do it all. From being a successful entrepreneur, to an amazing room mom, or home-school mom, to coaching soccer, to taxiing the crew to music and dance lessons, to volunteering in the community and church, to preparing delectable meals, to keeping her home white-glove ready at all times, and of course, being perpetually in the mood for romance with her husband after the chaos of the evening routine has finally settled.
No wonder she is so frazzled!
Perhaps her cape was scorched by the candle she has been burning at both ends!
Take it from me, a recovering “Superwoman burnout.” If you don’t allow yourself to rest, refuel, reflect, and renew, your flame will fizzle and grow dim. Thriving will quickly turn into barely surviving. In the attempt to be all things to all people, you will not be able to fulfill any role well. Every area of your life will suffer.
I am not advocating narcissism or neglecting our responsibilities, but I assure you that it is far from selfish to nurture yourself for the purpose of renewing your passion and becoming equipped to serve more effectively.
Think balance, priorities, and quality over quantity. Draw strength through prayer, Bible study, and meditation. Take care of yourself. Cherish relationships. Rest. Laugh and enjoy life!
Yeah, I know; it sounds like too simple of a formula. However, that really is the answer! It’s time to slow down and let some things go. Say “no” to many of the good things in your life so that you can say “yes” to the best things. Choose a few things to do with excellence instead of trying to do it all with mediocrity. Allow some room for margin in your schedule. Take good care of yourself so that you can take great care of others.
Say “no” to many of the good things in your life so that you can say “yes” to the best things. Choose a few things to do with excellence instead of trying to do it all with mediocrity.
What do you like to do that recharges your batteries? Here are some suggestions to help you get your cape back:
- Begin each day with prayer and Bible study.
- Reevaluate your to-do list and scratch off the unnecessary tasks. Reduce stress.
- Exercise. Do something that is fun. Go for walks.
- Eat healthy meals and take supplements. Enjoy treats in moderation.
- You must get plenty of sleep.
- Read good books and nurture your mind.
- Have quiet time to rest and reflect. Sitting in a rocker on the front porch isn’t just for grannies!
- Have regular haircuts and manicures.
- Do something just for fun. Reward yourself for your hard work.
- Spend quality time with your husband, children, parents, loved ones.
- Reach out to friends. Give someone a call or write a letter.
- Learn a new skill. Try a new hobby. Take a class.
- Try a new recipe.
- Take a bubble bath.
- Nurture the atmosphere of your home with candles, fragrance, soothing music, flowers, art, order, relaxing decor, etc. Make your home a haven.
- Watch a hilarious movie or a clean comedy routine and belly laugh until it hurts!
- Wear comfy pj’s and fuzzy socks and relax in front of the fire place.
- What are some of your ideas?
I would love to hear from you Superwomen out there! What do you do that makes you feel like a million bucks? Do you know a real-life Superwoman who inspires you? Do you know some younger Superwoman wannabes you can inspire before they have a chance to burn out too?
My prayer is that this inspires you to relax and enjoy the life God has given you. May you be blessed beyond measure!
Blessings!
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 NIV
But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. Luke 5:16 NIV
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 ESV
And where is the cleaning getting done? And the food shopping? And the ckeaning? And the home repairs? And the bill paying? And the financial planning? Oh, and some of us work a 40+ hour outside jib with 10 hours of commuting time. My husband has abdicated every responsibility to me. So except for the sleep (because anything less than 7 hours and I fall asleep behind the wheel) and the healthy eating (because I do 90% of the cooking), the rest of these will have to wait for heaven
Trish, I feel you here! When I was teaching full time, and my kids were still at home, I ran myself ragged! However, I really payed for it with my health. It wasn’t worth it. I found that some things were just not as important as my health and spiritual well being. You may be going through a very challenging season, and your time to rest and refresh is limited, but I urge you to find moments to take care of yourself. Even if you all you have is 15 minutes per day, that will help you utilize the remaining hours of the day more effectively. When you get older, you will have more time to for the longer walks and naps, and maybe even a massage! Until then, hang in there and give yourself some TLC whenever you can. God bless!
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