Slow Down

​Single working parents are able to be strong, resilient, multitask and play multiple roles, often at the same time, and still have time to bake a birthday cake, and do all of this well, on most days, and I consider myself part of this group description. But, the truth is, I am tired, things slip, memory recall is somewhat challenged, and don't get me started on emotional reactivity!

I decided to intentionally slow down, because calmness and presence are important values for me and my boys. Intentionally slowing down means moving into the present, taking deeper breaths, and having just one item in mind at a time.

On the day I slowed down, I re-prioritised some tasks and let the lesser ones go, I moved slower physically and mentally, and let go of the constant manifestation of mess to my every clean action (thank you boys).


What happened since then has been quite remarkable...

• The priority tasks I have set, including completing another chapter of a book I am writing, writing the next article, changing the spring wardrobes to summer, preparing a family day in my local community, and outlining my next series of webinars and an adolescent leadership skills camp all happened with effortless ease and were either completed or put together much faster.
• The process of creation was far more enjoyable
• Because I slowed down I got more done because my mind was clearer.
• Because I slowed down and I got more done, I rewarded myself the last 30 minutes of my scheduled work time with a relaxing tea in the sunshine and this further relaxed me.
• I realised the mess in the house only takes 5 minutes to clean after the boys have gone to bed, and it strangely no longer bothers me during the day.
• The little things I choose to let go from my priority list, I manage to do very quickly after the boys are in bed, because I am calmer in mind and have the head space to give 20 minutes to setting up an NIE number, ordering new passports, writing a blog, progressing through CPD teachings, or making savoury muffins for Louie, and it no longer matters if i fail to tick the boxes on getting these things done when I want them done; a week later is totally okay, and so is a month.

Slowing down is improving my quality of life and Intend to embrace it fully.