I came down with a cold this week. I haven't been sick since the three times I had Covid, and I didn't have many symptoms. But this week, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Sore throat, sniffles, chills – the whole package. I woke up sick as a dog on a Monday and decided to work from home. I lasted until 12:30 PM, succumbed to exhaustion, and slept for four hours. After that, I went back down for another ten. I only allowed myself this much rest because I believed it was a quick hack to cure myself in a single day. It's almost comical that Type-A folks think we can't afford to be sick or take more than a day to heal. I even considered a bottle of red wine the cure for every ailment in the past, and I swear it worked, back then!. But since taking on my role as Jennifer Maher, the life force strategist and business coach, has taught me better – to honor my professional values while prioritizing self-care.
As a Type-A personality, I'm all too familiar with the relentless pursuit of success that often consumes us. We're known for our ambition, competitiveness, and unyielding drive for perfection. We excel at setting and achieving high goals, traits that can be incredibly advantageous in the business world. But what happens to our persona when we're sick and vulnerable?
When I, as a Type-A, contemplate taking time to heal while sick, it triggers a whirlwind of conflicting emotions and thoughts. On one hand, slowing down and prioritizing self-care ignites guilt and anxiety. There's the fear of falling behind, the concern of being perceived as less productive, and our innate competitiveness pushing us to downplay the severity of our illness so we can soldier on.
However, deep down, there's a recognition that neglecting our health may lead to more significant setbacks in the long run. We Type-A personalities are notorious for pushing through headaches, fatigue, and stress until our bodies reach a breaking point. The thought of being sick for an extended period is almost unbearable.
I want to remind you that recognizing when to recharge is crucial, regardless of your lofty goals. Here are some essential steps for Type-A personalities like me to determine when we need a break:
1. Listen to Your Body: Listen closely to your body's physical and emotional cues. Are you constantly fatigued, experiencing frequent headaches, or feeling emotionally drained? These are signs that your body needs rest.
2. Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Schedule breaks, exercise, and time for relaxation as you would any other appointment or work task.
3. Set Boundaries: Establish boundaries in your work and personal life. Learn to say no when stretched thin, and communicate your limits to colleagues and loved ones.
4. Embrace Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily life. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, or taking a few moments to check in with yourself can help you stay in tune with your needs.
5. Seek Support: Be bold and ask for help or guidance from a mentor or coach. They can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing the challenges of being a Type-A personality.
In conclusion, soulful prosperity isn't just about achieving success in your career or business; it's also about nurturing your well-being and finding balance in life. Type-A personalities may face unique struggles when recognizing the need for self-care. Still, with awareness and deliberate effort, we can learn to prioritize our health and recharge when necessary. The wisdom I have gained from my coaches in growing my capacity as a life force strategist and business coach tells us that true prosperity encompasses both outer achievements and inner fulfillment. So, let's listen to our bodies, set boundaries, and embrace self-care as we journey towards a more soulful and prosperous life. And what ever you do, do not drink the bottle of wine, it does not cure the common cold!
Your guide to personal and professional transformation,
Jenn Maher
Business Coach, Implementer & Life Force Strategist
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