I have 2 kids, 2 dogs, a spouse, a full-time job and 2 part-time passion projects/gigs. My life is FULL and I am grateful for all of the opportunities that have come my way. On the other hand, I NEED balance, predictability, and a good chunk of time ALONE. Can you relate? Before I started the practice of checking in with myself and being aware of what was going on In my head and body, I spent a lot of time “being there but not”. Going through the motions…almost to the point of disassociating. I realized that I was basically “robbing Peter to pay Paul” with time from my day, simply because I wasn’t asking myself nor being honest with what I needed in that moment. That need changed from day to day; sometimes it was time to just empty my brain and be still. Sometimes it was time to plan, organize my space and weed out wasn’t serving me. Others it was just having a chance to be playful and dig into those moments alone or with others to do the things that fill my bucket. Asking yourself “what do I need right now” is a simple but powerful question if you really stop and listen to the answer. We are taught to attend to and anticipate others’ needs (also important), but intentionally carving out moments to take care of yourself will benefit you and everyone in your orbit — promise. You’re worth it!