SPACE FOR YOU

By Natasha White

As a woman, even more so, as a Black Women, I understand dealing with the demands of work, family and the ups and downs of life all while trying to keep it together. I understand working long hours, lack of sleep, exhaustion, fatigue and feeling like there is never any time for self I have come to realize we women tend to negotiate our well being to maintain all the responsibilities we have but lack focus on the most important person-ourselves

To dispel the mindset that there is no time for self, here are five steps women can take to help make SPACE for themselves SPACE is an acronym which means Set Priority to Activate Consistently and Eliminate I know that is a mouthful but here is a breakdown to better understand how its execution can benefit our self care.

Set

Set means to put, lay or stand something in a specific position Setting intention to put YOU before all on your todo list gives you inclusion into your schedule It’s about setting boundaries and standing in them without question and making sure the outside forces are aware of them When you SET time in place for YOU, everything else can be scheduled around that time thus giving you the flexibility to fill your cup.

Set Intentions:

● Acknowledging distractions that pull you from you

● Determine with whom and with what you need to set boundaries

● Make a list of your core values and set a standard for others to follow

● Set goals for your self care

By Natasha White

Prioritize

Prioritize means the right to take precedence or proceed before others Often times, as women, we put everything and everyone else before ourselves and thus we become lost to who we are. Too often, we associate our self care with our jobs, spouses, children, business, hussle and the actions we take to show up for them. Yes, it is awesome to be there for others, but at what expense? Just as much as we make the people and things outside of us priority, we have to do the same for ourselves Now since you have the intention set, it is time to make YOU a priority!

A is for Activate

Activate means to set something into motion, start up If you never take action, it will never get done. Really, how often do we say we are going to do something for ourselves but get redirected toward someone or something else? It’s time to stop activating your energy for everyone but yourself. Be the change so you can reduce stress, frustration and overwhelm

Now Is the Time To:

● Shift-value your well being more-say YES to YOU!

● Use this opportunity to embrace what’s best for you

● Hold yourself accountable and set alerts to remind yourself of what you already set and prioritized for yourself

C is for Consistency

Slow and steady wins the race. If change is the desired result, then there must be continued forward motion Your persistence is what will continue to keep you on track towards making time for yourself a lifestyle practice. It’s about giving yourself grace even in the moments you get distracted, but knowing you have the arsenal to get back on track It’s about not giving up on you and showing up no matter what.

Prioritize YOU:

● Choose one challenge area that needs attention

● Note its current state

● Create an action step that is doable

● Put it on your schedule

● Give it 5-mins of your attention daily

Never Give Up:

● Keep skin in the game-embrace your WINS

● Get a SURE accountability partner-You are not alone

● Don’t quit, tweak where/when needed

E is for Eliminate

Here is where you put an end to that which has been robbing you of having a fulfilling self care routine This is vital to your growth, peace, strength, sanity, health and life. There are some things or people that need to go and once you are comfortable with ROCKING the other 4 steps, this part will not be so difficult.

Clean House:

● Create your exit list-people things not serving you

● Develop your exit strategy-block, exclude, delete

● Execute-gain peace of mind, stress less

This SPACE journey is not a one size fits all Address your pain points and utilize these prompts to help shift yourself care into the right direction. Get into the habit of showing up for you on purpose and reap the benefits for your emotional, mental and physical wellness

Natasha White

Natasha White is a Licensed Massage Therapist and Founder/CEO of New You Wellness, LLC out of Chicago. She is passionate about helping women to take the work out of self care and utilized simple techniques that make pouring into themselves easy, doable and effective so they can operate at their most optimal level www.new-you-wellness.com

Natasha is one of the newest additions to the InfluencHER Editorial Team, make sure you connect with her and welcome her to our family!

5 First Date Favs...

When planning a first date, it's essential to choose activities that allow both individuals to get to know each other in a comfortable and enjoyable environment Here are five top first date ideas, high key fun, low key pressure: Coffee or Tea Date: Meeting for a coffee or tea is a classic and lowpressure first date option It provides an opportunity to have a relaxed conversation and get to know each other without the pressure of committing to a long activity. Choose a cozy cafe or a trendy tea house where you can enjoy a warm beverage and engage in meaningful conversation.

Miniature Golf: Miniature golf is a fun and lighthearted activity that encourages friendly competition and laughter It's an excellent way to break the ice and create a relaxed atmosphere Plus, it allows you to interact and have fun together while engaging in a light physical activity

We Outsiiiide!

Outdoor Picnic: If the weather is pleasant, consider going on an outdoor picnic Pick a scenic park or a quiet spot by the lake, and bring a basket of delicious snacks or a light meal. A picnic allows you to share food, relax in nature, and have a more intimate conversation away from the hustle and bustle of a busy venue

Visit an Art Gallery or Museum: If you both appreciate art or history, visiting an art gallery or museum can be a stimulating and insightful experience. You can explore the exhibits together, discuss your thoughts on the artworks or artifacts, and learn more about each other's interests.

Cooking or Baking Class: Taking a cooking or baking class together can be a unique and interactive way to bond on a first date It allows you to work as a team, have fun, and share a delicious meal or dessert that you ' ve prepared together. This type of activity fosters collaboration and can lead to some memorable moments.

Remember that the best first date ideas cater to the interests and comfort levels of both individuals involved. Communication and mutual consent are key to ensuring a successfulandenjoyableexperienceforbothparties

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