Some days are just wonky—like a slinky flipping end over end down a 70’s green shag carpet staircase. It’s messy, unpredictable, but it’s okay. After all, as the morbid saying goes: it’s another day above ground.
On days like this, I lean into the fact that I’m a good person and so are the people close to me. Starting there ensures I’m not on the attack or defense, while also giving grace and space for emotions to run their course. Space is key—both giving it and taking it.
I also slow things down. It seems counterintuitive, but by taking a bath, eating something tasty, laying in the hammock, and playing a couple games of cribbage organized some of the disorganization. Self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all, and often I need to drop one thing that isn’t working for something else. The main thing is not to give up. And just so you know, a nap is not admitting defeat; naps are amazing snacks for the brain.
Burnout has taught me what not to do. Reflecting on what I was doing before the last bout helped me see what wasn’t working. A couple of years ago, I learned to allow myself what I call a “two-cylinder day”, instead of holding myself to the V-6 or V-8 standard I used to. The funny thing is, I noticed no one else seemed to notice. Just giving myself permission to dial it in meant all I had to do was show up. And showing up, as I’ve come to learn, is a lot.
I’m not perfect. So much of what I’m doing, I’ve never done before. Thankfully, I have good support and try to observe others’ mistakes so I don’t repeat them—though I still make my own. The grace I extend to myself today feels like a gift, and for that, I’m grateful.
Here’s to another day! Love, Jaclynn
Going On 40 