How often do you put yourself first and really take care of what you need to be at your best?
I noticed this recently as I have booked a course. One option was to attend online weekly from my desk, while my kids festered on technology in the room next door. I would have been half listening to the course and the kids. My learning experience may have been less than 100% as I anticipated what I would then need to go and do once the online programme was finished and straight back into the normal routine.
Option two was a residential programme, let’s call it a Retreat! The programme covers the same content, from a beautiful villa in Mallorca. The schedule includes daily meditation, yoga, journaling, mindfulness with the opportunity to walk, swim and explore the surroundings alongside other coaches.
From a learning perspective it is clear which I would take in more of the programme and which I could thrive from. From a balance perspective, it is also clear which would be most effective from a family perspective.
Can you guess which I booked?
I booked the Retreat. I was calling it the ‘Diva’ course, being totally indulgent, heading off on my jollies to the sun. This was riddled with guilt. I was guilty to be going alone, leaving my family and all the jobs. Nobody is asking me to do this advanced programme, rarely do clients ask if I am qualified, let alone look for deeper learning.
I started my first pre-read of the course, and realised I was undertaking self care. The retreat would have a positive impact professionally and personally. Coaching is an intense practice, where the coach needs to be in good condition physically and mentally to have capacity for clients and themselves.
From the moment I changed my mindset, I am so excited about the Retreat. I am open to learning and reflecting professionally. I am grateful for the dedicated time to practice yoga, learn new mindfulness and meditation techniques. Some of which I have already used with clients from the pre-reading materials.
Finding courage to put ourselves first, especially where we already live busy lives can be a challenge. Generating permission to invest in ourselves can be a challenge.
What would you give yourself permission to do? What would the impact be?
If you are ready to explore topics you would benefit from reframing contact zia@ziasavel.com Take a look at the Zia Savel Ltd Blogs for further inspiration.
If you want to see all the beautiful Retreat pictures please take a look at Zia Savel Ltd on Instagram