Hiya Space Makers,

I was trying to decide between two different approaches for the first part of today’s post but then I remembered that I am the boss of me so I decided to put both of them in here.

Approach #1 – Add Some Fun

Today, I’d like to invite you to make your tasks a bit more fun.

Yeah, I know you probably have some things to do that are no fun at all and there might not even be a way of making them fun. You may just have to power through those – set a timer, curse the whole time, do whatever you need to do to get to the finish line. Here’s hoping those ones go quick.

But there are other tasks that are kind of routine, maybe even tedious, that you could have a bit of fun with.

With those tasks, you could play some music, or put on comfy clothes, or put a movie on in the background, or listen to a podcast, or challenge yourself to do them within a certain amount of time, or ‘race’ a friend to the end of a set of tasks you are both trying to finish. Maybe some good snacks or a fancy cup of tea or coffee would make a difference. Or perhaps you can set a timer and get up and move around whenever it goes off – a different movement each time or weirder versions of the same one. Or, you might make a chart on a piece of paper and cross off your tasks, or make a big star on the paper for each one you complete.

Really, anything that adds a bit of fun can make your list feel easier and will make your day flow more smoothly. And I vote yes on both of those ideas!

Approach #2: Give Yourself What You Need

Ok, this isn’t drastically different than Approach #1 but the purpose is a little different.

This one is about making yourself more comfortable (without guilt!) while getting things done.

Lots of times, I try to power through my tasks even when I need a break, need some water, or I’m sitting in an uncomfortable way. It just seems like too much trouble to stop/get water/shift or do whatever needs to be adjusted. Unfortunately, the task then often goes on longer than I was expecting and I end up kind of cranky and disheartened.

So, space making friends, please, please, please, give yourself what you need and go easy on yourself.

Need a big list? Make one!

Need the music blaring? Turn it up!

Need constant snacks? Start pouring food into bowls!

Need company? Ask someone to join you in person, on the phone, or virtually.

Need a break every 5 minutes? Take one! Then take another!

Need to stomp and growl while you work? Put on your big boots and get that growl rumbling.

Need a cozy blanket around your shoulders or a fancy hat*? Dig ’em out and put ’em on.

Give yourself the things you need (or the closest version you can manage) whenever you can.

You may have a long to do list but you don’t have to suffer (even in small ways) while you make your way through it.

*****

Please note: Taking things off of your list is ALWAYS an option. Keep an eye out for things you can drop. Once again, you have my permission and if anyone gives you grief, send them to me.

There! See why I couldn’t decide which to post?

Anyway, whatever you are up to today, I hope you can find a way to give yourself some space.

I wish you ease and self-kindness, as always!

Here are our practices for today:

Our movement practice today is a 10-minute Dance Exercise to Release Stress & Anxiety from Tamara Nazon. I like how she talks about creating space within ourselves with these movements.

Our mindfulness practice for today is Guided Meditation | Creating Mental Space | Mindfulness Exercises from Mindfulness Exercises.

* I have a floppy white summer hat that I sometimes put on when I feel stressed and then I say in a haughty voice, “Fancy ladies never get stressed.” The combination and the idea is so ridiculous that it makes me laugh every time. I may just be easily entertained. 😉