People are NOT robots

People are NOT robots. Or AI. Or able to be "always on and faster".

We are human. We need to recharge and renew our energy, gain space to think better, and connect meaningfully to feel it's all worth it. 

As we move into the "back to school" rhythm, I've been thinking about my well-being routine. The things that help me think better, and be a better leader, wife, mother and friend.

This is something I've been working on for a few years. Everyone's routine will likely be different. The important thing is to have one, and (mostly) stick to it. That way the benefits flow consistently. 

I have a foundation which I keep, and then I continue to "play" with new things.  I experiment with myself. If the new thing is amazing, I bring it in (and sometimes let go of the thing that's not as good.) This way I'm constantly discovering how to take my mojo to new heights, which directly haloes onto my energy, work, family and friends. 

My "foundation" at the moment is:
- Gym 4 times a week.  I'm not naturally athletic. So yes it does "hurt" - but I do enjoy that endorphin rush and the high energy it gives me. As I'm sipping my "reward coffee", I feel amazing and it's only 8.00am!
- Meditation.  I do this daily for about 30 mins. It gives me space, clarity and peace. I especially love it after lunch - when my energy dips. Afterwards, I feel much more refreshed than any coffee can give me.
- Reading before bed: I love the escapism of fiction and beautifully written literature. This not only helps me wind down - it also helps me release the emotions of the day through escapism. 
- Escaping to Pearl Beach on weekends (my happy place). This is where we escape as a family when we can and enjoy downtime. 

Things I play with or do sometimes:
- Sauna.  I love how I feel afterwards!  It also really helps me sleep better.
- Swimming laps.  This works particularly well when I have a problem I can't find the answer to.  The rhythmical motion of swimming seems to shift my brain in different ways to the gym.
- Cold water swimming: I tried this last year and also loved it for the way it makes me feel AFTERWARDS (the first 2 minutes there is alot of gasping, but then I discovered your body goes numb, and it's incredible.  You feel so energised and exhilarated afterwards).
- Girls weekends away.  I have "3 besties" - and we have been friends for 30 years+.  We plan 2-3 weekends away a year, and that connection is just amazing.  It fills my cup.

I use to think wellbeing was "a bit indulgent". Now I know better.  This is about your state, your energy and your clarity. 

Being your best self is your job - as then you can give more to others, and still enjoy it. You can better cope with the cross-reads, curveballs and challenges which are never planned but still come our way. 

What do you do for your wellbeing? 
Do you have enough fuel in your "best self" tank?