We are halfway through January already and I feel I am starting to get somewhere with my life at home. One of the lads (17 in May) who has been with us 19 months and not done a single day in education, started at Military Prep college today. He had everything packed ready to go and was up at 5am to get his train for 06:38.
He has already sent me pictures of him in college, smiling, so I hope this is the start of an amazing turnaround for him. Just getting up and making a coffee without him being in the kitchen, this morning, is exactly as it should be, kids at college or at work, being productive and having a purpose in life, perfect.
I must admit the stress of having a 16 year old with you every minute of the day, holding on to your apron strings, following you everywhere, asking to join every car journey and even joining every gym session (is nothing sacred!), has been progressively building the pressure. Today has reminded me of how it should be – phew.
Don’t get me wrong, I love a busy house and having people pottering about the place, but when there is no respite, it takes its toll. This is exactly the reason we all need to be aware of the impact we have on others and the impact they have on us. We then need to have our own strategies or coping mechanisms to be able to remain calm and centred, so we don’t go mad.
My ‘tell tale’ signs that things are getting too much, is that my energy falls, I stop smiling, put my head down and get busy. I’m not as engaged in things but I get through the day and everyone just waits until I get over it. Sometimes it takes minutes and sometimes it takes a couple of hours but all it needs is one thing to get me back on track.
On the main, a walk down the beach, or in the New Forest, is all I need. That seems to work every time because it reminds me of how beautiful life is and I love the view across the sea to the Isle of Wight or over towards the Purbecks, it’s beautiful.
As the year rolls on, I am mindful of how quickly time goes by and I’m trying to cram as much in as possible. I have my goals to keep me focussed and I am motivated and heading in the right direction, but I am certain some things will go slower than I’d like or I will have to ‘park’ some things due to unforeseen circumstances. I might add a few new things and it will be an adaptable plan and you never know what’s around the corner!
So, my top tip today is: Recognise when the water around you is warming up. Never let it get to boiling point and use your ‘beach walk’ as often as you need it, to ensure you centre yourself and enjoy what life has to offer.
All in all, a good start to 2024 and I hope you are feeling the same.