Practicing self-care

Having dyslexia means you sometimes won’t keep up with those around you. This can be very challenging both emotionally and physically. 

Emotionally, it’s disappointing to watch those around you excel in what appears as an almost effortless way. Often wondering if you are doing something wrong and that’s why you aren’t having the ease that you see others have. Those feelings of disappointment can lead you to become even more frustrated, have trouble carving out a clear path, and overcome challenges that are hindering you from keeping with those around you.

Physically dealing with big feelings and emotions of disappointment can lead you to becoming extremely exhausted by the end of the day. It’s no wonder you would be so physically drained when you add to your daily load by trying to catch up to those around you. This includes putting in longer hours on your own, prioritizing tasks to help you keep the pace up, or just spending extra time focusing on the tools and steps you need to take to get yourself up to speed.

When you find yourself feeling emotionally and physically challenged, it’s good to go easy on yourself. Hold space for practicing self-care. This will help you to stay grounded and strengthen your focus in challenging times. 

There are a couple of simple ways you can practice self-care in your daily routine that are helpful. Here are some of the self-care things I do for myself that have made a huge difference in feeling less emotionally and physically overwhelmed when I face a challenging time.  

I set and maintain a simple morning routine. Before starting my workday, I spend 20-minutes relaxing with my coffee and setting my intention for the day.  Next, I turn on my favorite songs and finish getting ready.

During my workday, I take a quick 15-minute break outdoors. This could be a walk, sitting in the sun, or playing with my dogs in the yard. Taking this break helps me to feel more relaxed and focus better when I return to my desk.

Finally, I make a list of tasks that are still pending at the end of my workday, so I know when tomorrow comes, I will have a more productive day. This simple act also helps me to prioritize and plan my time better. 

You may pace differently sometimes. Practicing a self-care routine will help you get through challenging times a little easier.