Hello, friends, and welcome! I want to talk about a few things with you this afternoon regarding ways to take care of yourselves and your loved ones and manage mental stress. I'm also going to share my planner that I use to help me keep track and plan ahead. I have never considered myself an extremely organized person, and I won't pretend to brag that I can tell you how to transform your life with my advice. But, over the past couple of years I've really started to dedicate more time to stop and ask myself those questions we ask ourselves everyday in advance to give myself a little more structure to avoid the stress and anxiety I used to suffer worse from. The questions about if we have to pay a bill that day, if we have the energy to cook dinner, if scrubbing down that bathroom can wait until tomorrow, and if we have a work and/or school deadline to meet are some examples of internal questions I'm referring to. The more we focus on these types of questions, the less time we dedicate to our personal selves. I'm referring to emotional, mental, and physical personal health that many folks neglect in the day-to-day because the rest of life gets overwhelming. While it still is and always will continue to be something I think I'll have to work on, I do have some tips to share for navigating this everyday stress and giving yourself more "me time."
Create Yourself a Minimal, Flexible Routine to Start Off the Day
Since moving into my own place in November, I've enjoyed creating a general daily routine for myself. It definitely varies day-to-day, but I try to be more consistent with it. Chris and I begin every morning by making coffee, and occasionally we will make breakfast (we try to get extra creative with breakfast in the mornings with Gregory and Arthur here). After that, I devote about 10-15 minutes to a general daily "getting ready" routine:
*An optional first step (not included in the time) would be to take a shower or bath, and occasionally I start my day off with one, but I prefer to do so at nighttime.
1. Apply Deodorant~ I love to use this one from Old Spice because it doesn't have aluminum in the ingredients.
2. Change into Fresh Clothes~comment fashion and outfit ideas down below & check out my Fashion Friday posts, too!
3. Apply a Body Mist~ This one from Bath & Body Works is wonderful for everyday!
4. Brush Teeth~ I'm unable to find the exact toothpaste I've been using, but this one from Dollar General is really similar. My mouthwash is a simple, non-alcohol formula from Kroger.
5. Cleanse Face & Moisturize~ I use this hemp seed oil & cucumber facial mist and cleansing wipes, and I also use this water gel moisturizer from cleen beauty for extra hydration. (comment down below if you're interested in a more detailed skin routine in a separate post!)
6. Apply Makeup (typically only if there is an occasion or if I have plans for the day, also not included in the time)~ if you'd like posts for more specific makeup talk, don't hesitate to let me know down below! I'd love to go more in-depth on products and looks!
7. Style my Hair~ I'm not one to use hot tools on my hair on an everyday basis, so I reach for a leave-in product to tame my natural, long, thick, wavy hair. This Air-Dry Cream from OGX never fails to tame my crazy locks if I just dampen my hair and apply it.
From here, I've done just about everything I need to do before I need to leave to go anywhere for the day. Due to COVID-19, federal & state government regulations, social distancing, etc, Chris and I have been unemployed and pretty confined to home for the past month or so. We're definitely staying positive, and finding new things to do and enjoying the simple moments everyday. He's been working on a lot of music via electronically with his fellow musician friends; they've been recording their instrument(s) and/or vocal tracks to send to one other and compile songs for albums. I've been focusing on the blog, searching for new music and podcasts on Spotify (again, if you've got a rec, lemme know!), getting creative with food, recipes, meals, etc, and taking more time for myself throughout the day.
Try a Planner, but Don't Freak Out if it's Not For You.
To help me plan future parties and events, create and track goals, budget and track income and bills, and make lists, I use this planner from Amazon. It's available in several colors and sizes, and my favorite part is the customization of this particular one. I like being able to have creative freedom with how the inside of my planner looks. However, if the thought of a planner is too overwhelming, start with something more simple; many of my friends talk about bullet journaling, and I found an adorable animal cover option!
Taking a Day Off Does NOT Mean You Are Lesser Than the Worker Who Doesn't, It Means You Understand the Importance of a Reset Day.
I truly believe it is important to have a minimum of one day per week where it is acceptable to avoid work and relax. As somebody who works two jobs, though, I realize this is not a possibility for everybody. However, as long as you feel you're able to take an adequate amount of time off for yourself to do your work to the best of your ability, that's what matters. If you feel overworked and overwhelmed, it's important to speak up to your employer/teacher/mentor and explain your situation and ask if there can be some sort of compromise. Don't be ashamed if you think you've got too much on your plate at the moment.
I challenge you to send this post to one friend or family member who needs a little bit of encouragement or could benefit from practicing more self-love.
Share your routines with me! I want to know how you guys practice your self-focus.
Lets connect in other places!
Follow me on my regular Instagram @anneleigh306
Follow me on my FOOD Instagram @love_your_foodx
Until next time, hope you're Living23 like me.
Thank you, Tammy! We miss you guys! We are both doing pretty good right now, we have the boys at the house this weekend and they’re doing good too!
Great post, Anne! I agree that everyone needs a self care routine. Especially now during the virus shutdown. I hope you and Chris are doing well! Sending much love to you both and also to the boys! Keep up the great blog!!