When did it become wrong to kick back and relax? have a good time? do nothing for a change?
Too many of us 40 somethings are caught in busy, hectic, and stressful routines. Even worse, some of those around us are caught in a my life is more difficult, more challenging, more stressful than yours competition.
Guess what? There’s no prize for running yourself ragged. Trophies aren't given for the most stressed out or most exhausted.
Downtime, and even playtime, are essential to living a healthy, balanced life. When you set aside time to unwind, you not only have a good time, but you also disconnect from stress, release tension, recharge your batteries, and get ready to face the world with a fresh outlook.
For many, life gets more stressful as we approach the big 4 - 0. Some of our stress factors are obvious — bills, demanding jobs, relationships, health, family, aging parents, job insecurity, rise in cost of living, or getting older itself.
Now is the time to make sure to do something about it. Stress — and living an unbalanced life — takes its toll too quickly on all of us. It effects our health, relationships, and every aspect of our lives.
Let’s face it. Stress is coming at us from all directions. We work hard and are caught in a culture of workoholism — and not just in the workplace. Most people I know have more obligations after their traditional work hours than they ever imagined. And, they’re not setting aside time to unwind and relax.
We can’t ignore our responsibilities, but it’s time to break the cycle and have some fun. Giving yourself some much needed downtime — or playtime — will give you more energy and maybe even a brighter outlook.
Don’t put it off any longer. Plan something fun for this week. Figure out when you have time and what you want to do. Make sure it’s positive and releases stress. Parents: Get a sitter, or take turns watching the kids.
There’s so much to do. If you’ve neglected yourself long enough and need ideas, here are some easy and inexpensive ways to relax and have fun:
Too many of us 40 somethings are caught in busy, hectic, and stressful routines. Even worse, some of those around us are caught in a my life is more difficult, more challenging, more stressful than yours competition.
Guess what? There’s no prize for running yourself ragged. Trophies aren't given for the most stressed out or most exhausted.
Downtime, and even playtime, are essential to living a healthy, balanced life. When you set aside time to unwind, you not only have a good time, but you also disconnect from stress, release tension, recharge your batteries, and get ready to face the world with a fresh outlook.
For many, life gets more stressful as we approach the big 4 - 0. Some of our stress factors are obvious — bills, demanding jobs, relationships, health, family, aging parents, job insecurity, rise in cost of living, or getting older itself.
Now is the time to make sure to do something about it. Stress — and living an unbalanced life — takes its toll too quickly on all of us. It effects our health, relationships, and every aspect of our lives.
Let’s face it. Stress is coming at us from all directions. We work hard and are caught in a culture of workoholism — and not just in the workplace. Most people I know have more obligations after their traditional work hours than they ever imagined. And, they’re not setting aside time to unwind and relax.
We can’t ignore our responsibilities, but it’s time to break the cycle and have some fun. Giving yourself some much needed downtime — or playtime — will give you more energy and maybe even a brighter outlook.
Don’t put it off any longer. Plan something fun for this week. Figure out when you have time and what you want to do. Make sure it’s positive and releases stress. Parents: Get a sitter, or take turns watching the kids.
There’s so much to do. If you’ve neglected yourself long enough and need ideas, here are some easy and inexpensive ways to relax and have fun:
- Go to a batting cage or driving range
- Browse a new exhibit at a gallery or museum
- Take a walk in a park or on the boardwalk
- Visit a zoo or botanical garden
- Catch a movie
- Take a long, scenic drive and listen to your favorite music
- Attend a cooking class
- Enjoy a yoga or meditation session
- Find a quiet place and start reading the book that’s been calling you
- Visit a winery
OK, if you're not in New York, you'll have to find another resource, but maybe you can still get an idea or two.
Hope you're ready to have some fun. I am!
