A few months ago, I was chatting with my good friend, Jill. I asked her what her plans were for the weekend and she replied, " It's my planning day tomorrow." I was intrigued and asked for more details. As she talked, I knew that I needed to share this idea with all moms. This is what she said:
"My husband frequently attends conferences for work that have some aspect of leadership training and career development. I'm jealous of this time he gets to spend setting goals and focusing on improving his career! As moms, we rarely get this opportunity! He suggested that I take a day for planning and improving. So for the past 3 years I've taken a "career development day" right around the beginning on the new year. It's been a little different each year, but I have usually gone to a nearby hotel spa. I try to use the time to get ready for the upcoming year. I think about my goals and write them out, reflect on the past year, what's working and what hasn't. I find an inspiring article to read, this year it was "Mother's who know" by Julie Beck. I write in my journal, get a massage and this year I started the morning at my favorite yoga class. In the past I've spent time at the library, gone for a walk on the beach and met my mom for lunch. I feel like getting organized with my goals and taking a day of quiet helps me to start the year with a fresh focus. Last year I was also able to sneak away for a few hours the Saturday before mother's day to revisit my goals and do similar planning. I sometimes call it a "retreat" day or "planning" day. And this year my husband and kids met me for dinner and I was so happy to see them. It's the best Christmas gift my husband gives me!
I loved this concept that Jill shared. Any other job you would have would require that you set up some time to reflect on your performance, set goals, think about how to improve, and set plans for the future. Motherhood should be no different! It is a job; the most important job. Now to get your husband on board; promise him a happier you and I don't think it will be too hard. I would imagine that this day can be anything and fit into any budget. Your children and spouse will benefit from you taking time for you!
