Excellence to Eminence

Don’t forget to honor yourself this Memorial Day

Values: Excellence, Accountability

As we head into the holiday weekend, I’m looking forward to a long weekend. I also plan to celebrate the true spirit of the day, and remember thoseAmericans who gave their lives in service to our country.

But there is another important person I plan to honor this weekend – myself. I don’t mean to sound egotistical (though it would be fun to have a parade thrown in my honor!) but we ALL should take time to honor ourselves in simple ways. After all, we fight the great fight every day and take care of students, patients, and colleagues at work. Then, outside of work, we have many obligations to our families and communities. It’s easy to put ourselves last on that long, long list.

Yet if we don’t take care of ourselves, we can’t do nearly as much for others. When you’re sick, overtired, or stressed, you aren’t at your best, and aren’t as effective at anything. Focusing on your well being improves every aspect of your life; taking steps to be healthier, less stressed, and mentally energized helps you become more efficient, more creative, and more effective. The few hours you spend taking care of yourself and doing what you want to pays off because you can do more of what you have to in less time.

This weekend, I plan to sleep in, get to the gym, and spend some time with family and friends. While I will cross a few things off my to-do list at home, I’m going to give myself permission to take time to relax. I won’t worry about wasting time, because I know I’ll come back on Tuesday well rested and re-energized.

Whether it’s going to the gym or cooking a few healthy meals to keep your immune system up and running, catching up on yard work and cleaning to get ahead for next week, or catching up with friends or hosting a movie marathon for your family to reduce your stress level, take time to honor yourself this weekend. Not only do you deserve it, it’s a great way to get a running start at the summer.

Happy Memorial Day!

Write a comment

• Required fields are marked with *.

Name:
Email:
Subject:
Comment: *

Help prevent spam - enter security code above:
 

Please note by clicking on “Post Comment” you acknowledge that you have read the Terms of Use and the comment you are posting is in compliance with such terms. All posts are moderated for appropriateness. Inappropriate posts may be denied by the moderator.