Refueling

By MGAL Guest Jessica Riesenbeck

Last week I was having a pretty rough morning, feeling tired, grumpy and very emotional.  While sitting at the gas station I happened to glance over at the gas gauge with the light on, as we refueled.  I watched for what seemed like forever before the light turned off-once it did the gauge quickly rose to full.

At that moment it hit me and it was all I could do (and should have) not to let the tears flow.  That gas gauge was a symbol of me.  My gas light is always on.  I never put in enough fuel to turn it off, allowing my energy and spirit to rise to full. 

I’m always a bit grumpy, negative, tired and just going through the motions because I am not very good at taking care of myself.  I actually really suck at it.  As a Life Coach I know how important this is-this is what I coach on. As a woman and mom I know deep in my heart how essential it is, but I make us excuses.  You probably know my friends, “there’s not enough time,” “I have to do everything around here.

Talking with my coach later that morning I realized I don’t take very good care of me because I think doing things for yourself is selfish and lazy, so I create excuses to allow me an escape.  I look at those women take care of themselves and I get jealous,  snarky, and envious.  Because that’s what my true self if aching for! 

Taking care of yourself and self-love is just the opposite of selfish and lazy.  The more you take care of you and connect with your core being, the more love and care you can give to those around you.  The more rested, creative and free you feel-which allows the opportunity to get much more accomplished with a much better outlook and attitude.

I’m slowly working on turning that gas light off and keeping it off.  Each day I find one thing that fuels my heart and spirit. 

Are you refueling before the light comes on?

Jessica Riesenbeck is a Life Coach and Virtual Assistant.  As a Life Coach she works with moms who feel as though they’ve lost themselves in the busy-ness of normal life.  Helping them to find or remember what it is that makes them smile, laugh and feel excited again.  You can read more about Jessica on her website, www.jessicariesenbeck.com.