We live in a world that is fast-paced, highly connected, and very persuasive. We get caught up in doing more, talking more, and getting it all done as fast as we can. All of this can be seen as good if others are happy with the results.
But, what about you? Do you seek time where you need to do little, or nothing? A place where it's quiet and you don't have to say anything? How about slowing down and enjoying where you are?
Getting out of good habits can be just as good for you as getting out of bad ones. The first step is just to realize that you need a break, and that you should start to pull away from some responsibilities and habits. Here are a few simple, yet effective things to do.
You don't have to do all of them, just choose what works best for you and the things you would like to take a break from.
1. Leave messages. We're often bombarded by phone calls and emails asking for our time, advice, or just an ear. One of the simplest things you can do is setup your voicemail message and email auto response to let others know when you'll be checking them.
Letting them know a day and/or time lets others know that there parts of life more important right now, but you'll be back at a certain time to take care of the things they want from you.
2. Reschedule. Look over your calendar for tomorrow, the upcoming week, or month (even longer if needed) and reschedule any appointments. A few phone calls today can free up weeks of time. You may even realize that some appointments can be canceled or handled by someone else.
This may also turn into a good habit, where you can delegate or even stop participating in something that may not be necessary. Sometimes it takes looking at everything with different eyes to realize that some of the good habits can help us be great if we weren't committed to them.
3. Don't go anywhere. We often think that going on vacation or a trip is the best way to get away from things. In many cases this causes more work and stress than not going. Once you begin to pull away from some habits, just enjoy the time. Stay home, sleep in, read a book, watch a movie, drink tea with a loved one, take a walk (or two), sit on the porch and watch the sun set, go for a swing at the park with your kids, or take a nap.
Just take a break and enjoy it.
We often feel as though getting things we want done, or need to accomplish, comes with adding 'stuff' to our plate; adding a new habit, getting a new device, or meeting more people. Sometimes it's better to take things away in order to get more of the important things done.
