Blueprint Breaker: Amy Palmer
Self-care during financial hardships can be tricky!
Let’s be honest, ladies. Who else out there feels like they’re on a hamster wheel most of the time? Constantly chasing deadlines, hustling for that next promotion, running errands – it can feel like there’s never a moment to just breathe. I confess, that used to be me. As a classic type-A personality, my life was all about “doing.” There wasn’t much room for simply “being.”
Financial Uncertainty:
Then, things hit a wall. The stress, the relentless drive, it all caught up with me. I knew I needed a change, a chance to prioritize my well-being. So, I took a leap of faith and embarked on a 90-day sabbatical. It was a scary decision, especially financially. Leaving the security of a steady paycheck felt risky, but I had squirreled away some savings beforehand, which gave me a crucial safety net.
“financial uncertainty can feel crippling. It can cast a long shadow over even the most well-intentioned self-care plans”
Here’s the thing, sisters: financial uncertainty can feel crippling. It can cast a long shadow over even the most well-intentioned self-care plans. But what I discovered during my sabbatical is that inner peace isn’t a luxury reserved for those with overflowing bank accounts. It’s a state of mind we can all cultivate, even during challenging times.
Sure, having a financial safety net helped immensely. It allowed me to focus on healing without the constant worry of bills piling up. But for those who haven’t had the privilege of building that cushion, there are still ways to find solace in the storm.
Three Ways To Find Self-Care During Financial Hardships:
1. Prioritize Self-Care:
When the world feels chaotic, it’s even more important to create pockets of calm for yourself. Whether it’s a daily meditation practice, a long walk in nature, or simply curling up with a good book – make time for activities that help you de-stress and reconnect with yourself.
2. Shift Your Focus:
It’s easy to get bogged down in negative thoughts, especially when finances are tight. But negativity breeds more negativity. Instead, try to cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for, big or small. A roof over your head, supportive friends, even a good cup of coffee – focusing on what you have can shift your perspective dramatically.
“Surround yourself with those who uplift and inspire you.”
3. The Power of Positive People:
Surround yourself with those who uplift and inspire you. A strong support system is invaluable, especially during difficult times. These are the people who will celebrate your victories, no matter how small, and hold your hand through the tough spots.
Listen, financial insecurity is a very real source of stress for many of us. It’s okay to acknowledge it, to feel the fear and anxiety. But we don’t have to let it define us. By incorporating these practices into your life, you can find a sense of inner peace that transcends your circumstances. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. There are resources available like Savvyladies.org or National Endowment for Financial Education that can offer guidance and support.
So, take a deep breath, you’ve got this. Let’s create a life filled with peace and purpose, regardless of the financial storms that may come our way. Self-care during financial hardships is still available, it may just look a little different.
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About the Author:
As host and facilitator for the Blueprint Breaker podcast, Amy A. Palmer is dedicated to expanding and amplifying the voices of women over 45 who are living a “non-traditional” lifestyle.
After a lifelong struggle with feeling “outside” the societal norm and longing to live up to perceived expectations, Amy has found peace, acceptance, and joy as she embarks on the next era of her life. Amy was formerly a senior corporate executive, a nationally recognized sales and operations expert, an award-winning actress, a resident of 13 different US cities, and a prize-winning DC blogger.
Amy has a vast network of friends and colleagues with whom she enjoys travel and adventures and a close family including six niblings (nieces & nephews), the loves of her life!