This week, I was supposed to start training for a full marathon—a personal milestone I’ve been looking forward to for months. Instead, I found myself curled up in bed, battling an illness that forced me to slow down and reflect. I can’t remember the last time I was this sick, but this experience brought lessons I didn’t know I needed.
One of the biggest revelations? Our worth isn’t tied to the things we produce every day. Sometimes, the power we hold is in resting and re-centering, so we can focus on what truly matters. Here are 10 key things I learned during this time:
1. Parenting While Sick is Torture
If you’re a mom, you know the drill—kids don’t stop needing you just because you’re sick. Parenting while unwell is like running a marathon on empty. This experience reminded me of the importance of asking for help and leaning on your village.
2. Slow-Down Time is Good for the Soul
Rest is not a sign of weakness but of recalibration. Slowing down gave me time to reconnect with myself and let my body and mind recover. Sometimes, the most productive thing we can do is nothing at all.
3. Nothing is More Important Than Your Health
We hear it all the time: “Health is wealth.” But it’s true. This experience was a humbling reminder that all the success in the world means little without a strong, healthy body to support it.
4. Being is Just as Valuable as Doing
Taking a break from my usual hustle taught me that my worth isn’t tied to how much I accomplish. Simply being—resting, healing, existing—has its own value. I am enough, even when I’m not “doing it all.”
5. Advocate for Yourself
Navigating sickness reminded me of the importance of speaking up for myself, especially with doctors. No one knows your body better than you do. Asking questions and ensuring your needs are met is an act of self-respect.
6. Take All the Snuggles You Can Get
When you’re sick, there’s nothing more comforting than love and care from your partner, kids, and pets. Whether it’s cuddling with your dog or your child bringing you soup, these small moments of connection are healing in their own way.
7. Rest Builds Warriors
Rest isn’t just recuperation—it’s preparation. Taking time to heal builds the strength we need to tackle life’s challenges head-on. Warriors aren’t made by pushing through; they’re built by knowing when to pause.
8. Do What Feels Good
When you’re unwell, listening to your body is key. Whether it’s drinking tea, binge-watching a comfort show, or simply lying in silence, do what feels good and let the guilt melt away.
9. Watching Your Partner Be Sick is Worse
Seeing my husband under the weather was harder than being sick myself. It reminded me how much we take each other for granted and how important it is to care for one another during tough times.
10. Lean Into Support
Delegation, cancellation, and support are essential during hard times. Whether it’s a friend picking up groceries, a family member helping with the kids, or simply saying “no” to commitments, leaning on your circle is key.
Reflections for the Future
This week wasn’t what I planned, but maybe that’s the point. Being forced to rest reminded me to cherish my health, embrace the love around me, and value myself beyond my productivity.
I’m still that runner gearing up for a marathon—just not today. And that’s okay. Sometimes, the most important race is the one to slow down, reflect, and truly feel good forever.
Of course reflection brings a quality focus and I am ready to bring a quality focus to you in 2025! New Year, True You! If you are ready to replace burnout with balance, productivity with purpose, and overwhelm with feeling good, I invite you to join us and grab your EARLY BIRD Ticket to score merchandise and one-on-one coaching too!
I can’t wait to see you in 2025! Happy Holidays!
Love,
Dr. Tina B.