My Journey to Self-Care

Nearly a month ago I shared some of the challenges that I have had over the last few years that led to somewhat of a meltdown in early March. As the saying goes, “you have to have a breakdown to have a breakthrough” and boy was that ever the case! Here is a link to the blog I wrote about it.

First I have to say THANK YOU for loving and supporting me through all of this. I was so nervous to share my “mess” for fear of being ridiculed or judged – that people would think less of me.  The opposite happened in fact and it has been truly life changing. I feel such gratitude for all the emails, cards, calls and blog comments. There are no words to express my heartfelt appreciation.

Many of you have asked what has transpired since my post so I thought I would share. The best part has been seeing so many of you!

• Facilitated a panel discussion for the Future Business Leaders of America state conference comprised of some great friends. Enjoyed coffee after with my pals! Thank you Melissa Koerner, Melissa Albano-Davis and Molly Rider.
• Had my skin pampered and enjoyed time with aesthetician extraordinaire Cyndi Jarvis of Saving Faces Acne and SkinCare Clinic. Thank you, Cyndi for that very special gift!
• Spent time with a dear friend and hairdresser who has been in my life for 30 years. We reminisced, laughed and truly enjoyed each other’s company. Although I knew he was in the final stages of cancer, I did not know he would die 2 weeks later. Just a few days ago I attended his celebration of life and was reminded once again of the gift of friendship and the preciousness of life.
• Went to a fun party with an old and new friend and made new friends while there – thank you Becky Bryant and Kim Johnson!
• Finally visited the optometrist for a very overdue appointment and replaced my 15-year-old glasses (the new ones have some bling of course).
• Enjoyed a delicious lunch with dear friends who always inspire me and who just “get me.” Thank you Carolyn Keddell and Debbie Frawley-Drake (and for nearly two weeks enjoyed the pink tulips Debbie gave me – normally I would kill them after a few days!).
• Spoke at another event hosted by WIW pal Judi Turner and ran into my friend Deb Titus while at the restaurant. Once again I was reminded that the universe is amazing . . . had been thinking about an old friend/client and a member of the audience was someone who works with this person. Small world! We have since made contact and will be having dinner this Wednesday.
• Hosted a WIW Speed Schmoozing event and then a luncheon on self-care, learned some new tips/ideas and saw many of you. I have missed you!
• Got out of my comfort zone in a big way by trying yoga for the first time – and celebrated the completion of yoga teacher training by my pal Lani Voivod! This body is not yet made for Downward Dog but I gave it my best try!
• Spent an evening with 4 other professional women just having fun – You inspire me Melissa Albano-Davis, Heather Ramsey, Kerry Leakas and Joanne Edgar.
• Had an appointment with my new stylist Pam Sequin of Beauty by Design in Concord. Who doesn’t feel better when they visit the salon?!
• This will sound like I’m high maintenance, but also had my nails done and a nice pedicure! A girl has to be ready for when sandal season arrives! And my long nails were being an occupational hazard! Really!
• Spent time reading several books including one just published by a very old and dear friend. I was literally hanging on every word as a way of celebrating her achievements. Way to go Sue Hovey!
• Enjoyed a nice lunch with my Mom and several family friends whom I hadn’t seen in ages.
• Spent time in my hometown of Moultonborough and felt reconnected to my roots.
• Smothered my dogs with more kisses than usual!
• Began working on the weight issues and spent time outside enjoying the beautiful spring weather! I did the Happy Dance because lots of snow is melting.
• Made amends with several people I disappointed. Resolved a complex situation with a client, and said “no” a few times. Continued my role as a caregiver/nurse but with more patience. Did more deep breathing as a way to de-stress, especially when I got some life-changing news about a loved one and her health and uncertain future.
• This Friday I will see more of my WIW pals for a night of laughing and fun!

 And I learned some valuable lessons:

I thought that making time for me meant something else would be neglected. The opposite was true. I have been more productive in my business, more clear headed, happier and grounded. I have blasted through some to do’s, tackled some overdue tasks and even did massive long-range planning. I never expected that would be the case – it is like the more you do, the more you do! And I have a sense of peace as I have nurtured my soul by doing so many things that are important to me. I weathered the challenges a little easier as well.

I’m also making sure that I keep this past month fresh in my mind so should I ever start slipping backwards, I can think of all of you who reached out, remind myself that it is okay to take time for me, that it is certainly okay to share my “mess” because I’m surrounded by loving, non-judgmental people and that life is precious and I need to enjoy the gifts I have been given.

xoxo, Leslie