STOP LOOK AND LISTEN!
Do you remember that saying?
Road rules for life are the same. Life has a way of bringing you to a sudden halt every now and then. Hugely irritating and inconvenient, but also an opportunity to take stock.
Two weeks ago at 4 am I was struck down suddenly with Acute Labrynthitis. I went to bed perfectly well and got up absolutely legless with what can only be described as the worst kind of seasick nausea.
As my husband picked me up from the hallway floor (complete with carpet burns and bruising) I knew instantly what I had. (Two years previously I had experienced the same debilitating condition - with symptoms that went on for 12 weeks!)
I could barely contain my fury as I knew my work schedule would have to put on complete hold. I couldn’t sit - let alone stand or walk. Past experience told me the severe symptoms would last at least 5 days. I was not happy!
The panic attack symptoms and severe nausea when moving my head even slightly – took my defiance away.
Four days and four books later I was completely over lying flat on my back - but suitably humbled.
Since then I have been easing back into life and work. If nothing else I have had a lot time to consider where my priorities should be.
Here’s what I have learnt:
1. Your capacity for stress is never as good as you think it is. Your body will simply shut down when it has had enough. Stop when you need to – not when it’s too late!
2. Look at your work load and life balance. Make sure your body is keeping up or slow down!
3. Listen to what your body and mind are trying desperately to tell you.
4. The world does not shut down just because you are not in it – neither does your business if you have a plan in place.
5. People can wait for you to phone or email them back.
6. It’s okay to rest and read. Drop the guilt!
7. It’s a revelation to realize how well your husband can wait on you hand and foot!
8. Just because you feel better doesn’t mean you are – so ease on back to your work load when you have been off work with illness.
