Nesting: is a blog about the objects and experiences that create a sense of home. Without home, it is difficult to maintain health, find joy, or to be productive during our workdays. May you enjoy the Nesting series of blogs as much as I enjoy writing them. –Jana
Month end is a term often heard in businesses that track sales and that have monthly reporting requirements to fulfill. In our homes, month end often means bill paying, renewals, and worries about how things are all going to work out financially.
This year, I pledge myself to making month end a time of gratitude; a time of scheduling self-care right beside duties and obligations; and to making it joy-full rather than stressful. This month end, many of our friends and families are struggling due to the actions of the federal government leaders. May this please be the last month end in which the shut down is in force and so many workers are struggling so greatly.
Here’s an uplifting message. Monday at the end of a class, the instructor said: “Celebrate today, that by coming to class, you have taken care of yourself as much as you take care of others.” It was and continues to be a helpful reminder that indeed, we need to take care of ourselves, or we have nothing left to invest in caring for others.
Another month end uplift from a friend in Seattle: “when the bad days outnumber the good days, this is a sign that a change for the better is needed.” For most of us, the good days do outnumber the bad – focus on the good days. If, however, the bad days outnumber the good, protect yourself; ask for help; get help; communicate clearly what needs to change; and care for yourself as much as you are caring for others.
Waiting until month end may seem like too many days have passed to focus on gratitude and self-care. That’s good too because everyday care and gratitude is important. However at least once a month, pause and remind yourself of all the good in your life. Schedule your activities at the intervals that work for you and your best life.