The Silent Treatment

I used to avoid silence, I felt uncomfortable in it. Maybe because it meant I was alone for that moment or because it allowed my own thoughts to be louder- which almost always meant I criticized every part of my life! Now though, I often crave silence throughout my day and seek it when I can. Usually through quiet lunches or dog walks in the woods, I'm really beginning to explore my introverted side which I used to try and ignore. Enjoying silence or my own company doesn't mean I don't enjoy the company of others and I certainly could not cope without the companionship of my friends and family!! But it means I can recover and recharge during busy, stressful days and hear my quiet, happy thoughts that get lost in the bustle of the day. I don't know how this change happened, but it was gradual. The more I experienced silence, the more I used it - to train my mind to focus on what was around me at that moment or what I could be grateful for right there. I think sometimes we confuse silence and just sitting as procrastination but now I think it actually helps me to be more productive.
a.g.f

Write Off Days

I try to stay as positive as I can day to day but there are times I just cannot shake a mood! On these days even doing things I love like seeing friends, lunching and dancing do not help so sometimes it is better to admit defeat and give up. If I'm working or at college I will finish my shift, cancel my plans and go straight home for bed and a cup of tea (maybe stopping for a bar of chocolate).

This downtime is so important because if we trudge on without allowing the odd lazy day/evening then the deflated, tired mood can fester and be harder to lose. Being completely unproductive can actually be the best thing to do! Allow it to happen without beating yourself up and try to start tomorrow refreshed :) 

Happy sleeping!