No matter how old we are, it’s important to never lose your sense of “play”. Not play in a sense of a 9-year-old, but learning to relax and enjoy yourself with something fun to do. Too many of us get caught up in life demands and deadlines and we forget or just don’t acknowledge to do this.

We tend to take on a lot or responsibility with our jobs, families, and whatever pressing projects are involved. Soon, we realize all of the time is taken up with something. It isn’t a good idea to do this, book yourself solid with commitments that must be filled. One of the important tips to learn to do this are two things: learn to say no, and don’t offer anything over and above unless you want to be the one expected to carry those things out. It is easy to do especially for people who are the achievers, or “doers”.  Isn’t that what we were taught? Good work ethics and accepting responsibility for most of what we do? Well, all and good to a point.

So, you say, how can I back out of all those responsibilities? There probably won’t be any backing out, but fulfill what you have but don’t take on anymore. When the projects are complete, the jobs are done, keep your mouth shut when volunteers are asked for, and don’t offer anymore great ideas to be carried out, because you will be the one who does them. Take a look at your counterparts at work, see those who are the doers and who are the followers. If you are always in the spotlight as the doer, it might be hard to change that. It is probably your nature to be there. If that is what you prefer, that’s great and admirable, but give yourself some breathing room, give yourself a break.

Sometimes these busy deadline-busting obligations come in spurts. It may not be a constant thing. Again, if this is what you want, don’t change anything. But if you want more time for yourself, don’t put yourself in the position of having to carry out the job. It may be good to let someone else carry the reins for a while, and it will probably be good for them also. Because you back off from some of this commitment doesn’t mean you will lose your status or are a slacker.  We all need a break from life-crushing demands occasionally.

When you find time to relax and spend time doing something for you, it will occur to you that this is a pretty good deal. Maybe you won’t have to be at a business dinner in the evening, but at home with your family for a hot dog and hamburger barbeque. The kids and your spouse will get to know you again, and you won’t feel the tug and pull of that responsibility nagging you every second. The old adage, “Stop and smell the roses” has a real meaning. It’s a message to you to take a look at what you are doing to yourself and those who matter most. That obligation to work or whatever takes your time will be fulfilled, but it doesn’t always have to be you who does it.

Take a look at your schedule. Make sure there is time built in for yourself. You are the one who is responsible for all those work and school obligations, you can control this for yourself. In the days to come you will see everything functions just fine without your constant input. Let someone else handle the details for a change and enjoy life. 😊