Having It All Isn’t All That

Any sane person would find this juggle anxiety provoking. However, if the scales tip too far to one side, it takes a heroic effort to get things back to the overwhelming norm. Although the pace is set to challenge your immune system, getting sick is out of the question. And there is little chance of feeling as if there is relief in sight. So, what’s the alternative? Having less.

It is a humbling fact that we are limited. When faced with our limitations, women tend to push back. We are socialized to take care of everything. And, as the demands in our lives increase, we think we have to take them on. It’s not easy to slow down. We have to be told, again and again, on an airplane to give ourselves oxygen before getting it for our loved ones. This goes completely against our training. And, yet, taking care of ourselves is a tricky business in and of itself. If we can admit our limitations and take a break to breathe, we have taken a huge first step. Next we have to take a break from the anxiety producing pace. Ask for help, even when it’s not the way we would do it. Allow for less than perfection in ourselves and our family. Make sure you laugh, that’s the best break for you as well as those around you.

Of course, this is easier said than done. Just remember, if you’re reading this editorial, you’ve already taken a short reprieve. Now that’s a job well done.