Five Miles to Empty

True confession: I usually drive my car until the gas tank is close to empty. But my husband has advised me to fill up once the tank is 1/4 full. This is a challenge for me because I like to just get in the car and go! Finding a place to fill up is a hassle sometimes and delays my trip. Oh the places I can go with only a quarter tank of gas! However, when the gas light comes on and I know there isn't a gas station en route, I immediately become prayerful and regretful that I didn't follow my husband's advice.

How often do you physically or mentally push yourself to the limit? How long will you keep that up before your body starts giving you warning signals that a refill is desperately needed? Our bodies, like our cars, should be well-tuned machines that we take care of. From the time we wake up in the morning, we're called upon to be multiple things. To be a spouse, a parent, an employee, a leader and more. Just as I expect to get in my car and GO, there are demands and expectations put on us to be ready to go full speed, every day, all the time. We do the best we can to rise to the occasion. But what happens when your body says otherwise? The light has come on and it's time to refill!

When do YOU refill?: Be proactive in scheduling downtime. Take a vacation! Limited funds? Staycations are nice, too! Do whatever you need to do to give your body the rest it's calling for. Don't wait until sickness, aches and pains come upon you to get the message. You know your body and you know what it needs to operate at peak performance. Pay attention, take a break, and fill up!

What do YOU refill with?: Find out what gives you the physical and mental break you need. At my company, many of my colleagues take a brisk walk outside around lunchtime. Simply changing your environment and getting some fresh air can give you new perspective. Prayer or meditation time is always good to help you refocus. Fill up with something that is going to relieve stress as well as energize you once you return.

I am making progress. The gas light hasn't come on in my car recently. And I have some downtime on my calendar already. Don't wait until it's too late to refill or recharge (for my hybrid/electric vehicle enthusiasts). If you wait until it's too late, you'll be running on fumes - desperate for a respite.

Question: What habits have you established to refill/recharge yourself on a regular basis?

INK WELL SPOKEN

"Empowering Your Purpose with the Power of Words"

#fillmeup #fillup #selfservice