Stop Being So Hard On Yourself. Clap For Yourself Instead.

We are our own worst critics. This is something that I’ve really come to realize this year. You guys may have noticed that I haven’t been posting as much over the last few weeks. I’ve also been less active than usual on social media. I’ve just been feeling very overwhelmed. My desk is overflowing with new products that I’d like to review for you guys. But I haven’t had time to photograph anything because my schedule has been so wonky. I’ve also been dealing with a family matter. Along with redoing my son’s room. And scheduling lot’s of hair clients. It’s not that I can’t handle it all, I simply need to find balance.

However, this is not what I was telling myself in the mist of feeling overwhelmed. I’ve been extremely hard on myself. Instead of admitting that I’m tired, I tell myself that I’m lazy. Meanwhile, I average 4 hours of sleep a night. So I am tired and rightfully so. But I somehow got this idea in my head that it’s normal to always be working and not get any sleep. It’s part of being a hustler. This is not normal. We need a sufficient amount of sleep to juggle all of the things in our lives. If not we can literally fall ill. So I’m learning that some things will just have to wait until tomorrow (or next week). And that my rest and (physical & mental) health is more important.

WAIST BAG | RINGS | SHOES | LIPSTICK | DUSTER (SIMILAR) | JEANS (TRY THESE)

Speaking of mental health, not only do we need to rest, we must also take time for self care. I haven’t been styling my hair as regularly. Or keeping up with my nails. Relaxing and watching my shows. None of the little things that I like to do to keep myself feeling and looking good, and to maintain my sanity. Everything else was more important. I had to remember that I am my number one priority. I can’t take care of anyone or anything else if I’m not in the right mental space. So I’m making sure to carve out time for self care. Even if it’s just an hour. If you made time for self  care this week, then clap for yourself. If not, carve out some time in your calendar.

I had to take a step back, really look at my accomplishments, and clap for myself. It’s damn hard balancing being a single mom with a full time job, along with running multiple small businesses. All while trying to carve out time for self care AND have a social life. But I do it. And I know now that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and be tired. I just take time time for myself and recharge, then get back to business. It’s all about balance. See my post How To Be A Boss Chick Without Burning Yourself Out.

I said all this to say, don’t be so hard on yourself. It’s okay to give yourself a pat on the back when you work hard. You deserve it, so give credit where it’s due. Clap for yourself.