Savor Today: Setting a timer
There are days where my patience runs out before lunch. That’s a pretty good indicator that it’s more me than anyone around me. I read somewhere that the way we respond to our children reveals more about us than their behavior (90% of the time for me at least).
To be in a better head space for long parenting days with toddlers and a baby, I have changed a few things I do routinely. When I don’t do these things, I see myself growing impatient, frustrated and anxious with myself and the people around me.
It all starts with setting a timer. I started to set a timer for myself and it’s kept me disciplined.
What I set my timer for:
I set the timer for 15 minutes a day for rest and fun while the kids nap. Instead of rushing to work, to check a chore of my list or to scroll the internet, I grab a cup of tea (or coffee) and a book usually. This clears my mind and heart to create space for everyone and everything else. Sometimes, I use this time to send cards and gifts to friends and family.
Before I head to bed, I set the timer for 10 minutes to do a fast pick up and clean up of the house. My husband does this with me and we also use this time to check-in with each other.
When I sit down to work, I set the timer for 20 minutes for administration tasks like answering emails, setting appointments, organizing and printing photos, and paying bills.
I am not naturally organized and setting a timer for a brain that functions like mine, keeps me disciplined and organized. Usually when I am doing one task, my mind is coming up with 100 other plans and projects.
Doing all this, just helps me to savor today and the people in my life. I want to create healthy habits and routines for more joy-filled days at home raising these sweet babies of mine.
with joy,
Aneta
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