For most of my life achievement was the goal. Career, relationships, health, or athletics - I saw it through the lens of achievement.

Wanting to reach a huge goal (first doctorate in family, first female officer in my fire department), a small goal (complete 2 spartan races within 1 year of wrist fracture with bolts) or a seemingly impossible goal (85lb standing bicep curl?)  created constant motivation. 

 The love I sought outside myself through achievement was a lover who was always unattainable.  I could always be not quite good enough. There is always more, something bigger and better.

 Don't get me wrong, Achievement is valuable, and it has a dark side.

 Often achievement can be a way of avoiding hard conversations, things you don't want to think or speak about.

 Seeking achievement can create busyness.  When we feel constantly moving, working, and achieving you feel there isn't the "luxury" of self-reflection.

 You tell yourself...

How mini breaks and Ponder time can improve your creativity, your problem solving, your mood and your energy.

It is counter intuitive.

We all at times feel that we do not have the time to take a break from our hectic lives.  This is actually the time when it is the most important.

In fact, daily rejuvenation done as a habit will improve your creativity, your decision making, your mood and your energy.

Taking a vacation is not rejuvenation!  

Although you may not "feel" like you have the time to take a break, you do.  Make the choice to support yourself.

Rejuvenation needs to happen often and in short spurts to keep your energy high. 

Taking mini breaks every 20 minutes has been shown to boost decision making, creativity, energy and mood.  Set a timer.  (on your phone, silly)

When it goes off try this:

• Close your eyes and give them a rest from looking at your screen;
• Stand up and gently bounce on your toes getting your lymphatic system flowing;
• If you...