Coaching Corner Get two files...
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth
Today, I want you to either physically get two files (I love the colored ones), or just imagine that you have them. Honestly, this works so much better when you can put your hands on them and see what you have. Once you have your two files, get a marker of some sort and write the following on the first file: “Things I Cannot Control.” On the second file write:“Things I Can Control.” Yes, I am sure you are getting the drift of this message, however, I want to take it a step further and put it into your real world.
Let’s just start where we are -- the holidays! This is actually a wonderful example for us to work with. Many of us become overwhelmed organizing the details of pulling off "The Holiday Miracle." Give some thought to this time, the potential is there to become a crazed shopper, or a grumpy guy. What, in this situation do you have control over?
Well, you certainly do not have any control over the fact that the holidays are upon us. For those who celebrate, Hanukkah is right around the corner this year, and Christmas won’t be far behind. We cannot change this. We do though, have control over how we react to this time of year.
Perhaps you are finding you do not have enough time to get everything done -- work + home + holiday prep = no time! Let’s look at what you do have control over. You can control how you handle this yule tide stress.
You can choose to be pro-active, first making sure first that you are obtaining adequate sleep. Without adequate sleep, you begin your day with a deficit. There is a great app one of my clients told me about called “Sleep Watch.” It not only monitors your various depths of sleep throughout the night, you also get tips on how to improve your sleep time. For this one, you need an Apple Watch, although I am certain there are others available.
Upon rising, physically stretch your body well. And...breathe! Several deep breaths, moving from your pelvis all the way up through your chest. Open your arms wide to bring your breath in fully.
Also, watch your intake of sugar -- especially since the sweets will be readily available this time of year. Keep your diet as clean as possible, with adequate water intake.
Be aware of your pace -- are you rushing around, trying desperately to get things done? Notice your pace and S L O W down. We accomplish so much more when we move from our most natural pace -- which I promise is not high speed!
These are just a few tips to get you going. You now have some control over this holiday season, if you CHOOSE to! Write it down...and just be mindful to put it in the correct file!!! Enjoy!
