At the start of a new year, many women consider how they can improve their productivity. Some of the best changes can occur when we start taking care of ourselves. In The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People, Stephen Covey wrote about this when he talked about the “Sharpen the Saw Principle.” Covey.com describes it this way:
“Sharpen the Saw means preserving and enhancing the greatest asset you have–you. It means having a balanced program for self-renewal in the four areas of your life: physical, social/emotional, mental, and spiritual.”
Covey recommends spending an hour a day sharpening your saw. A woman who wants to make the most out of her life needs to spend time daily in these self-care areas: physical, social/emotional, mental, and spiritual.
I
Personal Story
When I was a young mom of two boys under two years old, my husband was working on his college degree. We managed an apartment complex and I cleaned the seven buildings and empty apartments. I was continually sawing, doing the work that needed to be done. I was worn out! I had to plan when I could recharge. I started taking the time then the boys slept to take a quick nap, read a book, enjoy a hobby, or read my Bible instead of washing dishes, doing laundry, or cleaning. Even if both boys only slept ten minutes at the same time, I spent a few minutes on something that helped me “sharpen my saw.”
Physical
Physical self-care could look different for each woman or different for the woman from day to day. The basics could include the following:
- Drink enough water and eat a balanced, whole foods diet.
- Take nutritional supplements and needed botanicals.
- Do some form of daily exercise- stretch, walk, strength train.
- Get enough sleep.
- Have chiropractic care or acupuncture when needed.
- Enjoy a massage to have physical muscle relaxation. Massage can also provide mental health benefits which include: a calmer mind, alertness, clearer thinking, healthier attitude, increased concentration, and more energy. Emotional health benefits are: general wellness, reduced stress, awareness of mind and body, feeling cared for, improved self-esteem, and emotional balance.
Social/Emotional
Social self-care is based on relationships, stress reduction, and fulfilling activities.
- Relationships- investing time in your marriage, family, friends, or coworkers. Some people get their energy from being with people and others do not. Even introverts benefit from a few quality relationships.
- Reducing stress through meditation on Scripture, deep breathing, or aromatherapy is a helpful aspect of self-care.
- Fulfilling activities, such as hobbies, are a way to recharge, especially when they bring you joy in creating or giving to others.
Mental
Mental stimulation is often an enjoyable form of self-care.
- Read books
- Learn something new, such as a new language, skill, hobby, etc.
- Write something- an article, letter, or a book.
Spiritual
Developing a relationship with God and developing a deep faith is a valuable form of self-care.
- Read the Bible
- Pray
- Join a small group discussion or disciple-making group
Action
As you can see there are many ways for a woman to “sharpen the saw.” It is up to each one to choose a time and activity that best meets her need in the current season of her life.
May God bless your healthful endeavors!
Joni
P.S. What do you think? Please leave a comment.
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